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Side Effects of Lipotropic

Lipotropics are amphetimine-like substances produced in plants which stimulate the nervous system and break down fat in the body. Lipotropics include ephedra, methionine, choline, inositol and betaine. They are used for the treatment of several conditions. Some vitamin supplements may also contain lipotropics.

  1. Uses for Lipotropics

    • Lipotropics have been a common ingredient in many diet pills, fat burners and B12 injections for moderate and short-term weight loss. Lipotropic products can be used to treat other fat and metabolism diseases and liver disorders. Other lipotropics have been used to treat high cholesterol. Ephedrine and other lipotropics have been used as an ingredient in cold and allergy medications, as well as in several types of anabolic steroids.

    Allergic Reactions

    • Allergic reactions are the most common side effect of using a lipotroic product. Rash, hives, and itching are typical allergic reactions that one may experience when using lipotropics. Some patients may have no side effects at all.

    Mild Side Effects

    • One may experience more mild side effects from the use of lipotropics. These mild side effects include upset stomach, bad breath and swelling of the mouth, lips or face. Other mild side effects include depression, incontinence, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

    More Serious Side Effects

    • More serious side effects may become evident after using a lipotropic. Trouble breathing and tightening in the chest can be side effects one may experience. Because lipotropics are an amphetamine-like substance, they are processed by the body the same way that the body would process the street drug speed. This can lead to increased heart rate and extreme changes in mood.

    FDA Regulations and Warnings

    • The FDA banned the use of Ephedrine and Fen-phen in diet pills in 2004. They have also set up guidelines regarding the government-regulated sales and amounts of medications containing amphetamine-like substances. This is due to an increase in the use of these substances in the manufacturing of street drugs like methamphetamines.

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