While over the counter weight loss supplements and dietary aids can help some people lose 5 - 15 pounds of weight, those who need to lose 10 pounds or more may resort to prescription weight loss drugs that are more powerful and can provide long-lasting results. Prescription weight loss drugs such as Didrex are becoming a popular choice for those suffering from obesity, but are designed only for short-term use.

Didrex is meant to be taken with a healthy diet plan, and work by reducing the appetite to make cutting calories easier to manage. Is Didrex the right fit for your weight loss goals? Here's a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks of this prescription weight loss drug:

Benefits of Didrex Diet Pills

Didrex is designed only for short-term use - a period of just 8 - 12 weeks - to reduce dependency on the drug, and ensure that the weight loss program offers gradual and long-lasting results. Pfizer, the company that makes Didrex, indicates that it is a sustained release diet pill, which means dieters will experience the effects throughout the day. Benefits of Didrex include:

• Reduced cravings

• Reduced appetite

• Long-term weight loss if a diet plan and exercise regiment are maintained

• Higher energy levels

Didrex falls under the category of Benzphetamine, an ‘anorectic' drug that increases blood pressure and stimulates the central nervous system. It is a relatively powerful drug that can produce effects within hours; still, it does require a commitment to a calorie-restricted program.

Drawbacks of Didrex Pills

Didrex contains several ingredients that can boost the metabolism and reduce the appetite for extended periods of time. However, the high concentration of these ingredients can lead to some side effects such as:

• Dry mouth

• Nausea and stomach pain

• Low blood sugar levels from reduced calorie intake

• Sleeplessness and insomnia

• Fatigue

• Blurred vision

• Restlessness and erratic behavior

• Hives or skin rashes

• Rapid heart beat and excessive sweating

Stephen Robert, the editor of the website Prescriptionsfirst.com, explains that Didrex can also cause skin abnormalities, hyperactivity and depression. Benzaphemtiane itself is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance according to theathlete.org, and has the potential to chemically change brain patterns that lead to abuse or addiction. Many people taking Didrex consistently will experience an ‘anorectic effect' within a few weeks, and this may lead to a state of tolerance after the first month. Increasing the dosage of Didrex is not recommended, simply because the drug contains several ingredients that can produce a state of psychosis, extreme irritability, nervousness and heart palpitations.

Bottom Line: Didrex should not be combined with other prescription drugs, herbal remedies or medication. It is not a cure-all for obesity, and weight loss can only take place in conjunction with a healthy diet and consistent exercise regiment. Several online resources indicate that Didrex is similar to an amphetamine, and will speed up the heart rate in order to elevate the metabolism; it should not be taken by those with a history of diabetes, thyroid problems, or alcohol abuse.