Apetamin, a weight gain supplement containing the ingredients cyproheptadine, lysine, and various vitamins, has become popular among those struggling to put on weight. Despite its widespread use in Nigeria, it is not approved by many health agencies globally, including in the United States. This is due to the fact that its main ingredient, cyproheptadine, is a prescription-only drug used to treat allergies and is only taken under the recommendation of a doctor.
How Does Apetamin Work?
Apetamin has been reported to boost appetite through the combination of its ingredients, particularly cyproheptadine. The latter works by targeting the hypothalamus in the brain, which is responsible for regulating food intake and other bodily functions. People who have tried other methods to gain weight but failed may resort to using Apetamin as a last option.
The drug is marketed as a vitamin supplement and is sold on various websites, but it contains cyproheptadine, which is a prescription-only drug used for treating allergies like runny nose, itching, and watery eyes. It is an anti-histamine and should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision, so taking it in supplement form without proper medical consultation is considered abuse.
Does Apetamin Work?
The potency of Apetamin is still being researched and there is no clear evidence of it leading to weight gain. However, it has been noted that it increases appetite and slows down metabolism, making it easier for a person to gain weight in a short amount of time. It is important to remember that weight gain still requires a proper diet as the pills alone will not have an impact.
Not everyone may experience the desired effects from Apetamin as everyone’s body is different. Additionally, taking it repeatedly poses a health risk due to the presence of a prescription drug and should not be used with other drugs such as antidepressants or alcohol as it can cause adverse reactions. People with conditions like anorexia or bulimia should also avoid taking Apetamin.
The results of 46 studies reviewing the effectiveness of Apetamin on individuals with varying medical conditions found that it was helpful in aiding weight gain for those who were underweight. However, it did not show positive results for people suffering from progressive diseases like HIV or cancer.
Legality
In several countries, the use of Apetamin is prohibited due to the presence of cyproheptadine, a prescription drug that should not be used recreationally or in combination with other drugs. As a result, it is not available in pharmacies or health stores. However, it can be found on websites that sell banned or illegal substances, sometimes under different names or with misleading information that downplays the health risks associated with taking cyproheptadine. So, it is important to be cautious when buying supplements online.
In Nigeria, Apetamin is still used, primarily by women for enhancing the size of their buttocks, breasts, and hips. The cost of Apetamin in Nigeria ranges from ₦3,000 to ₦10,000, depending on the size of the syrup bottle. It is important to note that Apetamin has not been approved by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
Is It Safe to Take Apetamin?
Using Apetamin poses significant health hazards and should be approached with caution. Despite its popularity among some individuals seeking physical enhancements, the drug is illegal in several countries and contains the prescription drug cyproheptadine, which can cause harm to the body if consumed in large amounts. Negative consequences of taking Apetamin can range from liver damage to death. It is important to thoroughly research and understand the potential risks before considering taking this supplement.
Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid taking Apetamin. Instead, consult a doctor who can help you find a safe and effective solution to help you increase weight or treat any underlying medical conditions that affect your appetite.
Side Effects
It is important to note that taking Apetamin can result in several adverse effects on the body. These side effects can range from mild discomfort like constipation and nausea, to serious health issues like blurred vision, irritability, and in severe cases, even liver failure or death.
It is also important to be aware that Apetamin can react with other substances such as alcohol, grapefruit and its juice, as well as other drugs like antidepressants and medication for Parkinson’s disease, and other antihistamines. It is always advisable to speak to a physician before taking any kind of medication or supplement to avoid any potential harmful interactions.
Conclusion
It is not advisable to take Apetamin as it has more negative consequences than positive benefits. The supplement is banned and considered illegal for a reason, and the risks associated with its consumption far outweigh any potential benefits. The dangers include constipation, nausea, blurred vision, irritability, liver failure, and even death.
Additionally, Apetamin can interact with other substances such as alcohol, grapefruit juice, and other drugs like antidepressants, Parkinson’s disease medications, and antihistamines. Instead of relying on these types of supplements, it is better to explore other healthier and natural ways of gaining weight, and to consult with a physician for the best treatment option.
