“Go online and buy prescription diet pills, it’s the easy way to lose weight!”

Almost everyone trying to lose weight has probably heard this more than once from well meaning friends. Unfortunately, this statement is mostly true. It is very easy to buy prescription diet pills such as Phentermine, Xenical and Meridia, from dozens of online pharmacies waiting to take your money. All they require is that you fill out a short questionnaire, which they have their “doctor” approve and your order is filled. These weight loss pills are FDA approved, have been subjected to clinical testing and are proven to be effective for weight loss.

Whoa, slow down a minute. This all sounds great, but there is a downside to buying powerful prescriptions online.

• First of all the according to the FDA website, they frown upon the online pharmacy sales of prescription diet pills when you do not have a valid prescription from your own physician.
  
  
• Prescription diet pills can have serious side effects, you should be under the care of a doctor while taking them.
  
  
• The “doctor” that reads your online questionnaire does not know your medical history, such as blood pressure, current meds or family history. These can be important when prescribing medication.

An alternative to buying prescription diet pills online is Alli. This is the first FDA approved, over the counter diet program on the market. Its available at drugstores, but you can find discount pricing online. The active ingredient in Alli is Orlistat. It works by preventing you body from absorbing some of the fat that you eat. It is designed to be used with a sensible diet and exercise program.

If there is nothing that is going to change your mind about buying prescription weight loss pills on the Internet, here are some suggestions to consider.

• Buy from US licenced pharmacies only.
  
  
• Before you order, make sure the product you purchase is shipped in the original, sealed manufactures packaging.
  
  
• Get a prescription from your own doctor before you buy. Don’t rely on an evaluation from an online physician you have never met!