An updated 2025 summary of mid-2000s diet pill recommendations: ephedra is banned, Hydroxycut was reformulated after safety signals, phentermine remains a prescription option, and many supplements offer limited or mixed evidence.
Herbal and stimulant-based diet pills can cause modest short-term effects but carry real risks. Ephedra was banned in the U.S. in 2004; modern products often use other stimulants. Read labels, limit total caffeine, and consult a clinician before use.
OTC diet pills once contained ephedra and other stimulants that caused serious health and legal concerns. Many key stimulant ingredients were banned or regulated; safety today depends on ingredient, dose, and product quality. Talk to a clinician and prefer evidence-based approaches.