The Hidden Drugs in That Diet Pill

It’s no surprise that an increasing number of people are turning to weight loss supplements to curb their appetite — versus changing their eating habits and getting more exercise. That’s true at this time of year especially — as temptations are high to eat, drink, and be merry, yet somehow still fit into that New Year’s Eve cocktail dress or suit.

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Diet pills can be tempting, assuming they actually work they way they’re promoted. But often they contain hidden, dangerous ingredients and come with tremendous risk..

The Food and Drug Administration is warning the public not to purchase or use Supreme Slim 5.7, a dietary supplement that is sold for weight loss — both on some websites as well as in retail stores.

The supplement contains phenolphthalein and sildenafil, two undeclared drugs.

[lz_bulleted_list title=”3 Popular Diet Pills to Question” source=”cheatsheet.com”]Didrex|Contrave|Belviq[/lz_bulleted_list]

Phenolphthalein is not approved for use and it may be associated with an increased risk of cancer. Sildenafil is the active ingredient in the prescription drug Viagra. It may interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs, and lower blood pressure to dangerous levels.

“This notification is to inform the public of a growing trend of dietary supplements or conventional foods with hidden drugs and chemicals,” the FDA said in a press release on Supreme Slim 5.7. “These products are typically promoted for sexual enhancement, weight loss, and body building and are often represented as being ‘all natural.’ FDA is unable to test and identify all products marketed as dietary supplements that have potentially harmful hidden ingredients.”

That’s the bigger problem — this isn’t the only supplement to question. Supplements ranging from weight loss pills to memory enhancers and sexual enhancement aids are all common places for medications to hide.

Related: You Can’t Talk to Girls About Their Weight

Consumers must always look for the FDA seal of approval. In the meantime, those who have purchased the product should take it to a drug disposal program in their area or take it back to the place of purchase for a refund. People can also report any adverse effects from taking this product or dietary supplement to the FDA, on its MedWatch Online Reporting Form.