Physical activity and proper nutrition are the keys to living a happy and healthy life, but some people may require a stricter plan than involves prescription medication. As part of a regular exercise program, doctors may prescribe diet pills, particularly for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) that exceeds 30 or more (27 in some cases) or an underlying health condition (e.g. type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure). Nevertheless, people can still misuse these drugs and suffer terrible side effects as a result. Here are several things to consider about diet pill abuse and dependency.
What are Diet Pills?
Diet pills are a group of medications that are typically prescribed for weight loss or to curb the side effects of an underlying condition. Some of the most common brands include:
- Belviq (Lorcaserin): curbs your appetite
- Contrave (bupropion and naltrexone HCL): a combination drug that suppresses dependence on alcohol or opioids
- Phentermine (also includes combo with Qsymia): curbs your appetite
- Orlistat (Xenical): blocks fat absorption in the body
- Saxenda (Liraglutide): forces the stomach to feel “full” to curb type-2 diabetes symptoms
Diet Pill Dependency
While the majority of these medications do not pose a serious threat, medical studies have shown that long-term use or abuse of diet pills can result in a form of chemical dependence. In this case, the individual may experience severe physical and/or behavioral changes if they immediately stop using the diet pills. One example is the diet pill phentermine, which has a high rate of potentially causing dependency.
Dangers of Misuse
In certain cases, individuals may become dependent on the effects of a diet pill and use a quantity that is larger than the prescribed amount. Before allowing a patient to take a medication, doctors formulate a dosage based on personal factors including weight and existing medical conditions. When a drug is taken in particularly large doses, the human body can undergo severe chemical changes, placing the victim’s life at risk.
Always remember to consult your doctor about how to use diet pills and never put your life at risk.
Remember that there is always hope for you. Drugs and alcohol do not have control over your life. You do. If you are suffering from drug abuse or addiction or have a friend or family member suffering from this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery. Counselors and healthcare experts can walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and help guide you to a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While it might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to keep you and your unborn child safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug addiction troubles today.
