There are many different forms of pills that claim to promote weight loss that are available by prescription as well as over the counter. While these medications are touted as miracle drugs to those wishing to lose weight, the side-effects and risks that accompany them are often not worth the benefit, if there is any at all. For some, diet pill abuse may signal a larger issue with body-image or an eating disorder. It is important to recognize the symptoms of diet pill addiction, as well as any underlying mental illnesses, in order to seek treatment and foster true health and wellness that isn’t centered around weight loss. While some diet pills are approved by the FDA for use in obese patients with a prescription, these drugs are only considered safe to use for a short period of time due to the risk of dependency. Some of these pills contain amphetamines or chemicals designed to have a similar effect, and their mood-enhancing and energy-giving qualities can increase the likelihood of addiction. While medically overweight individuals may be able to acquire these pills for weight loss, they may begin taking them as an “upper” to experience a high. Those who turn to over-the-counter diet pills are often those who are unable to acquire prescription drugs for weight loss because they are not considered to be medically overweight. In these cases, there may be a mental illness involved such as body dysmorphia or bulimia. Many of these non-prescription drugs are not FDA approved and have no scientific research backing their effectiveness. They can, however, contain ingredients that cause anxiety, shakiness, rapid heartrate, and general unease. Some of these drugs have even been found to lead to serious liver complications.
Abuse of diet pills, whether prescription or over the counter, can lead to serious mental and physical health issues, and should be treated as soon as the problem is identified. At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. The Arbor uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, and at The Arbor you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit, so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 844-413-2690.