Updated guide to diet-pill ratings: safety, effectiveness and what to watch for

This update preserves the original ratings' core message: many weight-loss products have limited evidence and can cause harm. It flags unverified product names from the original report, summarizes the real-world status of phentermine (a prescription drug with known side effects), and notes kava's historical liver-safety concerns. Readers should prefer peer-reviewed evidence, follow regulator guidance, and consult clinicians.

Overview

An organization billed as the Weight Loss Institute produced a set of diet-pill ratings that aimed to help people weigh effectiveness, side effects and cost. The original reviews were attributed to research by a Professor Arnsfeld. I retained the group's core conclusion: many over-the-counter and advertised weight-loss products lack strong evidence of benefit and can carry safety risks.

(Notes: I could not independently verify the current existence or credentials of the "Weight Loss Institute" or "Professor Arnsfeld" and they are flagged for verification .)

Rating criteria

The institute used three clear criteria: clinical effectiveness, potential for serious side effects, and value (cost versus benefit). Products reported to cause serious adverse events were excluded from favorable listings, while products with known safety problems were called out.

Products listed in the original report

Xerisan ASA

Originally ranked first and given 5 stars for overall rating, value and patient tolerance in the institute's chart. I could not find independent clinical studies or current product information for "Xerisan ASA" and therefore cannot confirm the rating or claims ¹.

Solidax ADX

Listed second with four stars overall and high tolerance. The original report noted it was ephedrine-free and effective in controlled lab studies. I could not locate peer-reviewed trials or regulatory records for "Solidax ADX" and recommend verifying the product and study citations ².

Phentermine

Phentermine is a real, prescription appetite suppressant that the U.S. FDA has approved for short-term use as an adjunct to diet and exercise in certain adults with obesity. It can produce side effects such as insomnia, dry mouth, increased heart rate and blood pressure, and it has potential for misuse. Because it is prescription-only, regulators and clinicians advise careful screening and monitoring.

The original report criticized poor-quality online vendors selling substandard versions of phentermine. Authorities continue to warn consumers about online pharmacies that operate outside verification programs and may supply counterfeit or unsafe medicines; use accredited vendors and consult a clinician before using prescription products.

Kava (kava-kava)

Kava is a herbal product historically used for relaxation. Around the early 2000s several countries issued restrictions after reports of rare but serious liver injury. The FDA issued safety communications advising caution. Regulatory approaches differ internationally, so check current national guidance before using kava, especially if you have liver disease or take other medications ³.

Bottom line

Independent, peer-reviewed evidence is the best guide to a product's effectiveness and safety. For prescription agents like phentermine, work with a licensed clinician. For herbal and over-the-counter supplements, look for published trials, up-to-date safety alerts from national regulators, and verified vendors.

1. Confirm whether a legitimate organization named 'Weight Loss Institute' and a researcher 'Professor Arnsfeld' exist and locate original reports cited [[CHECK]]
2. Verify the existence, regulatory status and clinical trial evidence for products named 'Xerisan ASA' and 'Solidax ADX' [[CHECK]]
3. Confirm current international regulatory status of kava (which countries have bans or restrictions as of 2025) and any updated safety advisories [[CHECK]]
4. Locate reported incidents or regulatory actions specifically documenting poor-quality or counterfeit phentermine sold online, if the original report's claim is to be cited precisely [[CHECK]]