Lipodrene Review
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By CANDICE GREY ConsumersCompare.org Update: Dec 27, 2022 |
- Strong energy
- Good focus
- Not jittery
- No crash
- Mild mood enhancement
Lipodrene with Ephedra is a diet supplement that has been marketed as the #1 weight loss product in America. The supplement was originally created by Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals and is sold all over the country in many different health and vitamin stores. Many people know this supplement as the “yellow hexagon,” due to its very vibrant color and unique shape.
Hi-Tech was founded in 1994, and its contact information is: 6015 B Unity Drive, Norcross, GA 30071, 888-855-7919.
On Hi-Tech’s home website, one 90-tablet bottle of Lipodrene with Ephedra 25mg costs $69.95 before shipping. A trial-size 20-count bottle is $14.95 before shipping. Ephedra Warehouse and a few other supplement web stores also offer it (Amazon does not) for around $35 for the 100-tablet bottle. You may even find it in the nutrition shop at your gym.
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Lipodrene Claims
For Advanced Appetite Control And Metabolic Stimulation! Lipodrene Is A Must Try If You Are Having Trouble Losing Weight, Whether Your Weight Loss Goals Involve 5, 25, Or 75 Lbs.!
Lipodrene, the “Yellow Hexagon,” is the original Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals Fat loss formula! Lipodrene was engineered based on volumes of scientific and clinical data with hundreds of Published studies by the most prominent Universities and Medical Journals in the world, including the following: University of Chicago International Journal of Obesity American Journal of Clinical Nutrition New England Journal of Medicine “This technology is unmatched by any other weight-loss or ‘fat burner’ product currently available.”
“Lipodrene Targets Fat In The Most Stubborn Areas such as: Abs, Hips, Thighs, Buttocks”
We’ll look at this claim in the Science section below.
Lipodrene is Hi-Tech’s original Weight Loss & Energy Enhancement Supplement and has become the benchmark standard for the weight loss industry. It’s everywhere. Anyone who has shopped around for a good weight loss product has seen the yellow hexagon Lipodrene tablets in tens of thousands of health food stores and internet retailers.
Now, more than fifteen years after its introduction, and after more than 1 billion tablets sold, Lipodrene not only remains Hi-Tech’s flagship weight loss aid, but also America’s #1 selling weight loss aid for one simple reason: When it comes to weight loss ingredients, Lipodrene has them all!
Lipodrene’s formulation contains 25 mg of Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals Inc Thermo-Z brand ephedra extract and its proprietary Thermo-Rx stimulant blend of extremely clean phenylethylamine alkaloids from acacia rigidula plant extracts. Often called the ephedrine imposter, acacia rigidula is seen as one of the most effective metabolic stimulators on the market today!… The “yellow hexagon” (named for the pill’s shape and color) is backed by double-blind placebo-controlled studies and the effects of the study were released at the Arnold Classic. … Whether you want to simply transform yourself into a leaner, more attractive body, or you want to get jacked and ripped to shreds, Lipodrene is the right move to lose weight and feel great all day!
NOTE: When I Googled “yellow hexagon double-blind placebo-controlled study,” all I got was one link to a Lipodrene sales page and scientific links to those types of studies in general and on other products. There was no record of any study in any journal or even a mention of a study outside those marketing blurbs.
And no news of this “breakthrough” being announced at the Arnold Classic, which seems to be a combination of Scottish Highland Games (athletic events) and ComicCon for bodybuilders. One would think this would make the media somewhere outside the fitness world.
But there is some small print under “The Science” on the Hi-Tech Lipodrine with Ephedra sales page that’s worth reading since it seems to contradict everything they’ve just said:
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to treat, cure, diagnose, or prevent any disease. This product should not be used in place of or as a substitute for recommendations by your healthcare professional.
No clinical study has been performed on Lipodrene®. These statements are based upon the active ingredients: Acacia Rigidula, Ephedra, Theobromine, Yohimbe, Citrus aurantium, Caffeine, Green tea, 5-HTP, 5-methoxytryptamine and Phenylethylamine. WARNING: this product can raise your blood pressure and interfere with other drugs you may be taking. Talk to your doctor about this product.
There are cautions mentioned on both sales pages and bottles (though not on ALL sales pages):
Directions: Take 1-2 tablets in the morning and 1 tablet after lunch. Do not exceed 4 tablets daily. Take for up to 8 weeks (requires 2 bottles). Men or women can take this product.
Warnings: Not for use by individuals under the age of 18 years. Do not use it if you are pregnant or nursing. Individuals who consume caffeine with this product may experience serious adverse health effects. Individuals who are sensitive to the effects of caffeine should consult a licensed healthcare professional before consuming this product.
back to menu ↑How Does Lipodrene Work?
Lipodrene contains significant amounts of caffeine and theobromine, two stimulants. They speed up metabolism and trigger thermogenesis, which is the body’s fat-burning condition. This may result in quick weight loss.
According to an 8-week study published in the International Journal of Obesity, obese participants who had their thermogenesis stimulated lost body fat.
The pill also offers a ton of energy, which can encourage increased activity and calorie burning. Lipodrene also contains components that reduce appetite, allowing you to consume fewer calories.
Lipodrene also encourages the release of fat from the body and prevents fat from being stored there. Anti-inflammatory ingredients in the product can also lessen swelling throughout the body, including the gut.
Antioxidants included in loporrene can neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. This strengthens the immune system and aids in the promotion of bodily repair.
The prospect of using antioxidant supplements to alleviate oxidative stress in adipose tissue was covered in a review in Antioxidants.
back to menu ↑Lipodrene Ingredients
Now let’s look at the science behind the ingredients.
Lipodrene is a unique component blend, hence the precise amounts of each ingredient are not disclosed. Instead, it lists all of its component parts together with the total amount of its ingredient blend, “Proprietary Blend with Thermo-Rx and Extend -Rx Technologies,” but not the dosage of each component.
Usually, two reasons are given for doing this:
- Make it more difficult for other businesses to “steal” the ingredient profile for Lipodrene.
- Allow the producer to subtly underdose components without drawing attention to it.
I should stress that just because Hi-Tech Pharamceuticals is capable of underdosing its product using a custom blend does not mean that it actually does. It simply indicates that we are unable to make a definitive determination.
Ephedra Extract
Ephedra products have a long and controversial history: see our general review here. [20] After the main alkaloid ephedrine was banned by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2004, manufacturers took two routes to account for the hole in their supplement line: they manufactured synthetic ephedrine —legal and known as Ephedrine HCL—or they created Ephedra extracts, which essentially meant removing only the banned ephedrine from ephedra and leaving the rest of the alkaloids in place.
Combining ephedra—extract or synthetic—with caffeine and similar stimulants does seem to enhance the overall effectiveness, but it comes with a lot of warnings as well, so caution is always stressed.
Senegalia Berlandieri Extract (leaves)
A shrub called Senegalia berlandieri can be found in regions of northern Mexico and the southwest of the United States. Senegalia berlandieri extract, according to Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals, improves metabolism by up to 22% in 45 minutes. I’ve only been able to uncover one study on Senegalia berlandieri; it was probably funded by Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals; and I can’t find any further details about the study besides press releases.
Lipodrene contains this extract in place of Acacia rigdula, which the FDA forbade.
Senegalia berlandieri contains a variety of phenylethylamine alkaloids, such as phenylethylamine, methylsynephrine, N-methyl-b-phenylethylamine (BMPEA), and n,n-dimethylphenylethylamine, which makes it advantageous to list it as an ingredient.
Enhancing mood is one of the main functions of the stimulant phenylethylamine, yet there is little data to support this claim.
Methylsynephrine, commonly known as oxilofrine, is a stimulant that is frequently found in supplements. Although it is claimed to increase energy and speed up weight reduction, there is no data to back up these claims.
Untested in human studies, BMPEA is an isomer of amphetamine.
A stimulant known as eria jarensis, n, n-dimethylphenylethylamine is believed to increase vigor and concentration, particularly when taken with caffeine.
Therefore, what you’re really looking at is a good package of stimulants. If everything else is equal, this may help with energy, mood, and appetite control, but it is unlikely to increase your calorie burning.
Methylhexamine HCl (DMAA)
Hi-Tech has been in the FDA’s crosshairs about DMAA since 2013, when federal marshals seized about $2 million worth of diet pills, as the company ignored warnings from the agency to stop making pills containing DMAA. The company, in response, sued the FDA for its “bullying” tactics. The legal action is still ongoing.
Yohimbe
An evergreen tree found in Africa, Yohimbe has been touted for its use in treating sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction, and as an aphrodisiac. It seems to increase both blood flow and nerve impulses, so it’s also been used in dietary supplements claiming weight loss and performance-enhancement qualities. However, there’s not enough clinical evidence to back up any of those claims. And the more severe side effects include seizure, rapid or irregular heartbeat, heart attack, and kidney failure.
Green Tea Extract (leaves)
Green tea extract contains high levels of catechins, which are a type of antioxidant that can help boost metabolism and burn fat. Some studies have shown that taking green tea extract can increase fat burning and lead to weight loss, although the effect is typically modest.
In terms of dosage, most people should try to aim for 400 to 500 mg of green tea extract per day. Lipodrene does not declare how much green tea extract is in each serving.
Citrus Aurantium Extract (fruit)
Citrus aurantium extract, also known as bitter orange extract, is a popular ingredient in many weight loss supplements. It is believed to work by increasing metabolism and burning fat, although the evidence to support these claims is limited. Some studies have suggested that citrus aurantium extract may be effective for weight loss, but others have found no significant effects. In addition, there are concerns about the safety of this extract, as it can cause side effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure.
Hoodia Extract (cactus)
Hoodia extract is a popular ingredient in many weight loss supplements. It is derived from the hoodia gordonii plant, which is native to South Africa. Hoodia extract is believed to work by reducing appetite, although the evidence to support this claim is limited. Some studies have suggested that hoodia extract may be effective for weight loss, but the results are mixed and more research is needed. In addition, there are concerns about the safety of this extract, as it can cause side effects such as dizziness, nausea, and increased heart rate.
Cassia Nomame Extract (plant)
Some people take cassia nomame for obesity, but there is not a sufficient amount of evidence to support these claims.
Naringin (fruit)
Naringin is a flavonoid found in citrus fruits, such as grapefruit and oranges. It is believed to have several health benefits, including weight loss. Some studies have suggested that naringin can increase metabolism and burn fat, leading to weight loss. However, the evidence to support these claims is limited and more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of naringin for weight loss. It may help regulate glucose, which may help lower glucose levels over time. This could help control cravings for carbs and aid users in controlling their weight.
Dihydroxybergamottin (fuit)
Dihydroxybergamottin (DHB) is a compound found in grapefruit and other citrus fruits. It is a CYP3A4 inhibitor, which means it can interfere with the metabolism of certain drugs by the liver. Some weight loss supplements contain DHB, as it is believed to increase the effectiveness of the other ingredients. However, the evidence to support this claim is limited and more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of DHB for weight loss. In addition, there may be potential drug interactions associated with DHB, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before using any weight loss supplement that contains this compound.
5-Methoxytryptamine HCL
5-Methoxytryptamine, also known as 5-MeO-DMT, is a psychoactive compound found in a variety of plants and animals. It is a potent hallucinogen that is used for its psychoactive effects. There is no evidence to suggest that 5-MeO-DMT is effective for weight loss, and in fact, using this compound for any purpose other than its intended use can be dangerous. 5-MeO-DMT can cause a range of side effects, including hallucinations, dizziness, nausea, and increased heart rate and blood pressure.
L-5-Hydroxytryptophan
L-5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an amino acid that is converted in the body into serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is involved in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep. Some people use 5-HTP for weight loss because it is thought to help reduce appetite and cravings, leading to weight loss. However, the evidence to support this claim is limited and more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of 5-HTP for weight loss.
Synephrine HCL
Well-studied chemical synephrine has been demonstrated to support weight loss.
Generally speaking, the use of bitter orange extract (also known as p-synephrine) either alone or in combination with other herbal ingredients did not result in any significant adverse events, such as an increase in heart rate or blood pressure, or a change in electrocardiographic data, serum chemistry, blood cell counts, or urinalysis results.
When taken for six to twelve weeks, bitter orange extract/p-synephrine-containing products showed small gains in weight reduction. p-Synephrine alone and in combination products were proven to boost resting metabolic rate and energy expenditure.
A good dosage for synephrine’s effects on fat burning is 50 mg. Unfortunately, the amount of synephrine in a serving of Lipodrene is unclear.
Theobromine
Dark chocolate, coffee beans, and guarana berries all contain theobromine, a naturally occurring chemical with structural similarities to caffeine. Blood pressure is lowered, it serves as a milder, longer-lasting stimulant than coffee, and it may have a favorable effect on mood (source, source).
Typically, research doses fall between 200 and 400 mg (source). Unfortunately, the amount of theobromine in each serving of Lipodrene is unknown.
Anhydrous Caffeine
We’ve all heard warnings about caffeine in general; it’s great in moderate doses and can be really bad if you overdo it. And combining it with other stimulants, natural or otherwise, should be done with extreme care. But there are two types of caffeine: that found naturally in plants like coffee, tea, chocolate, and some other plants, and anhydrous (“containing no water”) caffeine, which is produced in a laboratory and maybe many times more potent than the natural version (essentially a concentrate).
back to menu ↑The Science (or Lack Thereof) Behind Lipodrene
Let’s start with Lipodrene’s claim that it can “target fat” in specific areas. I didn’t even have to go to a medical site for this one; it’s available on a fitness site.
So can you target fat loss to a specific area of your body? “The short answer is no.” There’s no evidence anywhere that doing 500 crunches is going to exclusively burn your belly fat. What it will do is help burn the overall fat your body has stored up, so eventually, the tummy fat will shrink anyway. And those crunches will strengthen your abdominal muscles, which will be better for your body overall. You can target muscle growth very easily in your abs, butt, back, shoulders, arms, legs, or chest.
Build muscle, burn fat. You just don’t get to choose what shrinks first. Only what builds first.
back to menu ↑Word On The Street About Lipodrene
Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals has a fairly long and troubled association with both the FDA and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Since 1994 its CEO, Jared Wheat, has gone from convicted drug smuggler (marijuana) to corporate executive of a dietary supplement conglomerate and has spent more than one stretch in prison for various charges of false advertising claims.
Despite all this, Lipodrene is still wildly popular. It isn’t for everyone, and a great many reviews stress due to caution in taking it.
Reviews from EphedraWarehouse.com (both 2013 – average 4.5 stars, 155 reviews):
“Katie K. From Minnesota” – Good stuff. … Gives me LOTS of energy quickly, but I do agree with previous reviews to take it with protein (i do a hardboiled egg)to minimize the jitters. I have to remind myself to eat and even then only eat a small amount because it controls my appetite so well. Lost about 1/2 pound a day without exercising to start-so I’m gonna keep it going and add in some workouts! Will definitely repurchase it!
“Michelle Mehlos” from Woodland Park:
“I have been cutting these into fourths….taking one fourth in the morning and another fourth at lunch…otherwise it is too much at one time. They are working great, for me, like this. Thanks.”
Reviews from A1Supplements.com (both 2017 – average 4.5 stars, 256 reviews, all reviews have “individual results” disclaimer):
“Alpha” says,
“Lipodrene gives you the real wings! … I take one in morning 5am and it last pretty much all day. You can expect just very focused energy… They are almost as close to adderall as you can get without the harsh side effects. If you take 2 or more your gunna shake and feel weird, just stick to the directions take one a day in morning and you will be golden! … I will buy these over and over again!”
“Mark” says,
“Best energy product on the market period but not a miracle weight loss. Nice clean energy. First week or two can be rough but I suggest you split the pill initially. As with any product tolerance builds fairly quickly but ultimately you shouldn’t be taking more than 2 a day. I have tried a butt load of products and with any of these not a miracle for weight loss. When combined with clean eating it will give you that extra edge.”
Reviews from MySupplementStore.com (both 2016, average 4.5 stars, 98 reviews, all reviews have “individual results” disclaimer):
NOTE: This time I purposely went looking for something other than 4- and 5- star. There aren’t many on any site, but I felt they should be represented.
“Tayuna” says,
“Didn’t Like It. The first day I took one pill before my workout and although I did feel more energized I also was slightly lightheaded. The second day I did the same thing, one pill before workout but afterwards I felt awful! My head was hurting very badly and I was nauseous. Haven’t taken anymore of the Lipodrene …”
“steve” says,
“bad. DO NOT BUY THIS!!! This product made me extremely sick! I ended up in the hospital. I have a high tolerance for drugs as I took adderall for years but with these I had never felt so sick. I could not stop throwing up. All I could do was try and eat to help that feeling go away. Do not buy! Please! They are just cheap nasty pills filled with many different chemicals!”
As with any supplement, different people have different reactions. Our body chemistry is as unique as our fingerprints. Almost every review with more than a single sentence offered both warnings and recommendations to follow instructions explicitly, and to increase water intake while using Lipodrene with Ephedra. Many praised the ability to cut the tablets if needed. So, used with care, the reviews do seem to bear weight.
back to menu ↑The Bottom Line: Is Lipodrene Worth Trying?
Insufficient Data to Praise or Pan. I find it hard to praise this supplement. As popular as it is, my own greatest concern with Lipodrene with Ephedra is the fact that Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals refuses – and has a long, somewhat shady history of refusing – to follow FDA and FTC court orders. No guidelines – actual court orders.
And they hide ingredients from their customers. There are other ephedra extract and ephedrine HCl supplements out there that are just as effective and that (generally) have more transparency and more trustworthy reputations.
However, the reviews speak of effectiveness on a very broad scale. So to be fair, I can’t pan it, either. If it sounds like something that will help you, start small and slow and be very mindful to follow the directions. Always let your doctor know when you add supplements to your diet/workout routine, so possible side effects can be monitored.
Been taking it for 3 weeks now 1 in the morning about half hour before workout, must drink at least half a bottle of water with it so you don’t feel sick and also must be active or you’ll feel jittery. Over all like the product it gives me energy and motivation to workout or clean house lol. And with low carb diet seem to be helping with weight loss!