Posted by: omahamedspa on: December 9, 2011
Let’s talk about what the FDA says about Hcg and it’s use for weight loss.
As I write on page 31 of my book “The OWL Diet” the ways the hormone HCG may help in weight loss are not known. Any discussion to the contrary is speculation or theory. As a result, the FDA correctly states that HCG has not been demonstrated to be effective adjunctive therapy in the treatment of obesity, there is no substantial evidence that it increases weight loss beyond that resulting from caloric restriction, that is causes a more attractive or normal distribution of fat, or that it decreases the hunger and discomfort associated with calorie restricted diet.”
“I agree with the FDA statement, since there is no scientific proof regarding the use of HCG and dieting. The use of HCG for weight loss is anecdotal, meaning it is based on case histories and personal experience rather than scientific research.”
On Dec 6, 2011 the FDA website posted the headline FDA, FTC to remove “homeopathic” HCG weight loss products from the market.
I welcomed this news. I have always told my patients that any use of hcg, in any form, and any dosage amounted to the use of prescription medication. The sale of hcg over the internet without a valid prescription from a doctor is wrong. This news does not change the ability of doctors to use low dose Hcg in an “off label” manner. The FDA is not supportive of doctors using Hcg, due to the lack of scientific studies to show it affect, benefits or lack of benefit. If the FDA bans the use of low dose prescription Hcg as an adjunct to dieting, then I will be affected, and will have to modify The OWL Diet to exclude the use of the hormone Hcg.
Why do I continue to use low dose Hcg with The OWL Diet? The answer is that I have found the low dose of 125iu daily to be very safe, and many patients report anecdotally that it does help them stay on the diet, and get to their weight loss goal. We also selectively use the FDA approved appetite suppressant known as Phentermine – but it is not free of side effects – and cannot be safely used by all patients. Phentermine is a controlled substance that must be obtained at the pharmacy with a written prescription, and it’s use requires medical supervision.
I will continue the use of Hcg with The OWL Diet until such time that a better alternative comes along, but I will also strive to stay in compliance with the FDA regulations.
January 6, 2012 at 11:12 am
I used phentermine in the past as an appetite suppressant and it worked great! How are you able to use it in your hcg product?? And at what strength is it? Thanks.
January 6, 2012 at 3:10 pm
Phentermine is an FDA approved appetite suppressant that has been used for many years. It must be prescribed by a doctor who has a DEA #. I prescribe the 37.5mg tablet and the dose is either one in the am, or 1/2 in am; 1/2 noon (but no later than 3pm). Phentermine cannot be used if a person has panic disorder, severe anxiety, severe insomnia, elevated BP or works in a job where it is not allowed (pilots, nuclear plant workers).
Dr. Abbott