Thyroid hormones are produced in the body by the thyroid gland. They are necessary for growth, and they stimulate carbohydrate use in the body. It is well known that individuals with an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) experience increases in metabolism and carbohydrate use. People with
too much thyroid hormone tend to lose 15% of their body weight.

This weight is regained when their thyroid is treated and thyroid hormone levels return to normal.
In 1893, thyroid extract was marketed under various brand names, including Frank J. Kellogg’s Safe Fat Reducer, Corpulin, and Marmola. People took thyroid hormone pills (or liquid) in addition …

The use of diet aids began around 1900. Since then, many drugs have been used to assist with weight loss. Some of these drugs, while very effective, produced serious side effects. These side effects were often not recognized until many people became sick, or even died.

The U.S. government has taken certain steps in an attempt to ensure the safety and effectiveness of drugs sold in the United States. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began screening drugs for safety in 1938 and effectiveness in 1962. The FDA requires that manufacturers perform studies to prove that their drugs are safe …