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Supplemental products used for weight loss.
Thomas L Lenz1, William R Hamilton
1Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy Creighton University Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68178, USA. tlenz@creighton.edu
Journal of the American Pharmacists Association : Japha
|February 18, 2004
Summary
Weight loss supplements and herbal products often lack sufficient evidence for efficacy and safety. Conjugated linoleic acid and pyruvate show promise, but more research is needed before recommendation.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Pharmacology
- Evidence-Based Medicine
Background:
- Numerous dietary supplements and herbal products are marketed for weight loss.
- Confusion exists among healthcare professionals regarding their efficacy and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific literature on commonly promoted weight loss supplements and herbal products.
- To assess the efficacy and safety data supporting these products.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of multiple databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, etc.) from 1966-2003.
- Inclusion of randomized, blinded, controlled studies of single-agent products in overweight or obese subjects.
- Manual review and data extraction by authors.
Main Results:
- Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) showed positive results with few adverse effects in limited studies.
- Ephedra demonstrated weight loss potential, especially with caffeine, but carries significant adverse effect risks.
- Garcinia cambogia and chitosan showed limited promise, with insufficient research.
- Pyruvate consistently demonstrated positive weight loss effects in studies.
Conclusions:
- Most weight loss supplements and herbal products lack robust efficacy and safety data.
- Conjugated linoleic acid and pyruvate have the strongest evidence but require larger, well-controlled trials.
- Further research is essential to establish definitive conclusions and guide clinical recommendations.