Anti-obesity drugs 'could make you even fatter'

London, Apr 20 (ANI): Diet pills, which the manufacturers say, can help shed those extra pounds might be making you even fatter, experts have warned.

The anti-obesity drugs sold over the counter cannot be a substitute for healthy living, they suggest. Selling anti-obesity drugs over the counter will perpetuate the myth that obesity can be fixed simply by popping a pill," the Mirror quoted Prof Gareth Williams, of Bristol University, as saying.

"Healthy living is the only long-term escape from obesity," Williams added.

Two drugs Alli and Appesat that assures weight loss are going on sale this week in Britain.

GlaxoSmithKline's Alli pill stops the body absorbing fat and is said to cut weight by up to 10 per cent in four months.

The drug creates a laxative effect, which the manufacturers describe as "an urgent need to go to the bathroom".

"Taking it without medical supervision may achieve a daily energy deficit of only 100 calories - equivalent to leaving a few French fries on a plate, eating an apple instead of ice cream, or having 10 to 20 minutes of sex," said Williams.

Appesat, is said to help users lose up to 2lb a week. It contains a seaweed extract, which swells to make a taker feel full, but can cause stomach upset.

"The cure for obesity and being overweight will never be found in a pill, packet or wonder drug," said Dr Jason Hal-ford, of Liverpool University and on the payroll of Appesat's maker.

"That can only come from enormous changes to our food and physical environment," he added.

The Department of Health also says, "We do not make statements about slimming pills but the best way to lose weight is to stick to a healthy diet and exercise." (ANI)