Doctor Dinh Nhu Quynh from the Endocrinology - Diabetology Department at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi warns against using unregulated weight loss products. Many such products on the market contain laxatives or central nervous system suppressants to reduce hunger and induce rapid weight loss. However, this primarily leads to dehydration or nutritional imbalances, not fat or visceral fat reduction. The weight loss is temporary and easily regained.

"Many online advertisements claim lozenges, pills, teas, or coffee can facilitate rapid weight loss without exercise or dieting. These claims lack scientific basis and are dangerous," Dr. Quynh said. Using these products can lead to serious complications like liver failure, kidney failure, anaphylactic shock, electrolyte imbalances, stroke, heart attack, brain damage, or even death if not treated promptly. For instance, Sibutramine, a banned substance that increases heart rate and blood pressure, raising the risk of heart attack and stroke in individuals with cardiovascular disease, is still found in some unregulated weight loss products.

According to Dr. Quynh, many unregulated weight loss products can cause severe kidney damage. Users tend to urinate more frequently due to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, negatively impacting kidney function. Prolonged or uncontrolled use can lead to irreversible kidney damage, causing chronic kidney failure and affecting other organs.

Use medication as prescribed by a doctor to support weight loss and avoid complications. Image generated by AI

Use medication as prescribed by a doctor to support weight loss and avoid complications. Image generated by AI

Some weight loss products contain allergens that can trigger skin reactions such as redness, rashes, itching, and allergic dermatitis. Rapid weight loss from these products can also cause skin to lose elasticity, sag, and become less firm. Using unregulated or unprescribed weight loss products for extended periods can lead to electrolyte imbalances, prolonged low blood pressure, and changes in intracranial pressure. Users may experience blurred vision, dizziness, eye pain, reduced eye accommodation, or eye fatigue.

These products may also contain synthetic thyroid hormones like thyroxine to boost metabolism and energy expenditure. This can disrupt thyroid function, causing thyroid toxicity with symptoms such as palpitations, rapid heartbeat, hand tremors, and unusual weight loss. In the long term, the thyroid's natural function can be suppressed, leading to prolonged endocrine disorders. This is a serious side effect often overlooked when individuals misuse unregulated products for rapid weight loss.

Dr. Quynh advises those who are overweight or obese not to use unregulated weight loss products. If you want to lose weight, consult a doctor at a reputable medical facility. They can provide a personalized plan to maximize effectiveness and minimize risks.

Mai Anh