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Pills to Slow Down Your Metabolism

Certain medicines can speed up as well as slow down your metabolism--how much energy your body expands for a particular activity. Making such adjustments on your own, however, can be dangerous.

  1. Many Hormones Contribute to Metabolism

    • Your metabolism is controlled by many hormones as well as neurotransmitters. You can adjust your metabolic rate by increasing or decreasing the levels of these substances in your body.

    Thyroid Hormones

    • Thyroid hormones have a significant effect on metabolism. The higher the level of your thyroid hormones (including T4, T3 and Reverse Thyroid), the faster your metabolism. To reduce your metabolic rate, a doctor may prescribe Methimazole or Propyl-Thyracil (or PTU), which will reduce your thyroid activity and slow your metabolism. These drugs are used in cases of hyperthyroidism.

    Beta-Blockers for Adrenalin

    • Adrenalin also increases your metabolic rate but excessive amounts may make you restless or jumpy. Beta-blockers such as Propranolol can control adrenalin. These drugs do not necessarily reduce the amount of adrenalin produced by the body, but reduce the ability of adrenalin to work efficiently, thus slowing down your metabolism

    Cortisol Makes You Fat and Fast

    • Cortisol is a hormone that can increase your metabolism, yet also make you fat. While a short burst of cortisol will increase the metabolic rate and supply your brain with lots of energy, a chronic elevation in cortisol levels can make you fat, especially around the midsection. Aminoglutethimide can lower cortisol levels, but the drug can have serious side effects.

    Do Not Self-Medicate

    • Medicines that can bring down your metabolic rate are all prescription drugs and can have serious side effects. Reducing cortisol levels too much is especially dangerous and may even lead to death. Take these medications under a doctor's supervision.

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