How can I lose weight?

Since the 1970s, products that contain phenylpropanolamine, also known as PPA, have been available over the counter to control appetite under brand names such as Dexatrim and Acutrim. PPA was considered a drug and was regulated by the FDA.

It was one of the only regulated weight-loss drugs that have been available without a prescription.

In November 2000, the FDA requested that manufacturers of products with PPA in them remove them from the market because a study showed that PPA increases the risk of hemor- rhagic stroke. Hemorrhagic stroke is a condition where there is bleeding into the brain or into tissue surrounding the brain. PPA stimulates the central nervous system and causes an increased heart rate, just as prescription appetite suppressants do. Although the risk of hemorrhagic stroke due to PPA con- sumption  was very rare, safer drugs to control appetite were available to consumers. The FDA found it difficult to predict who would be at risk of suffering a stroke as a result of taking PPA and decided to ban PPA in order to ensure that no one would experience this serious possible side effect.This type of advisory shows the seriousness of taking any over-the-counter  medications. Be sure to mention  any over- the-counter drugs when asked by a medical professional what medications you take.