Over-the-counter weight loss treatments typically fall under the category of supplements. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate or approve supplements. As a result, they aren’t as safe as medications, which go through intense testing to prove their safety and efficacy.
Talk to your doctor, endocrinologist, or registered dietitian if you’re having trouble losing weight. They can help you come up with a weight-loss plan that is right for you and safe for your body.
Dr. Sood is a board-certified Endocrinologist in private practice in New York City and an assistant professor at Hofstra School of Medicine.
Preeti Parikh, MD is the Executive Medical Director at GoodRx and served as the Chief Medical Officer of HealthiNation.
References
MedlinePlus. (2023). Weight-loss medicines.
Office of Dietary Supplements. (2022). Dietary supplements for weight loss.
Sombra, L. R. S., et al. (2022). Pharmacologic therapy for obesity.
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