"Pills are unnatural ways to lose weight. Of course when should take a pill and go for more serious interventions when there is a case of extreme obesity. But by self-restraint in eating and regular exercise one can reduce weight normally and in a healthy way," Nutritionist Rekha Malhotra, told this citizen journalist.

According to a latest report in the website of Zee News, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Vivus Inc`s weight loss pills, Qsymia. This pill was approved for obese and overweight adults and they should have at least one weight-related problems such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. Qsymia should be used in combination with a healthy lifestyle that includes low calorie diet and exercise. Despite the approval, Vivus still has to carry out the research to prove that the drug does not cause heart attacks or strokes.

There can be many side effects of weight loss pills, which may lead to serious health risks. These side effects vary - depending on the ingredients used in the pills. When it comes to fat blockers like orlistat, they remove excess fat via the intestines, so they cause gas, uncomfortable cramping and diarrhea. It also reduces the body's ability to absorb essential vitamins and nutrients. Similarly, appetite suppresents stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, which can raise blood pressure and heart rate, which in turn increases the risk of heart attack and cardiac arrest. Some other side effects of weight loss pills are dry mouth, constipation, headache and insomnia.