Excess weight or obesity increases the risk of developing serious health conditions such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes, but for many people losing the weight (and keeping it off) can be extremely difficult. Weight gain is often stigmatised, when in reality a number of factors can contribute to it ranging from medications to pre-existing health conditions.
Besides traditional methods such as calorie reduction and exercise, a number of newer treatments have come onto the market in recent years, one of which is lipotropic injections. In this article we’ll discuss what this method of weight loss involves and its potential risks.
What Are Lipotropic Injections?
Lipotropic injections are intravenously-administered doses of nutrients, vitamins and other ingredients such as branched-chain amino acids (BCAAS) and minerals intended to help with weight loss. The substances used vary from clinic to clinic, but many common formulas include:
- Choline
- Inositol
- Methionine
- Vitamin B-12
These are known as “lipotropes”, substances that help reduce fat production while removing fat from the liver. Methionine and vitamin B-12 (the most common ingredient) are often used because they are both nutrients that help regulate metabolism and fat in the body. More research is required into whether taking these nutrients over the recommended daily dose can actually assist with weight loss.
Do They Work?
While there is more research to be made, it’s thought that while the substances in lipotropic injections can help contribute to weight loss, patients are more likely to lose weight when it is carried out along with regular exercise and a healthy diet.
Additionally, any weight-loss effects are likely to be due to other factors such as underlying health issues or energy levels. For example, nutritional deficiencies can deplete energy levels required to exercise regularly, but when these are increased so is the motivation to exercise.
Before taking any supplements it is important to get your nutrition levels checked first by a qualified doctor, as overdosing on certain nutrients can cause illness and in some cases even be fatal.
About the Procedure
Lipotropic injections are generally administered in weight loss clinics and medical spas. The providers may or may not be licensed medical doctors, so check the credentials of any business you are considering getting treatment at before going ahead with an appointment.
Injections may be administered in the arm or another area of the body where there is more fatty subcutaneous tissue, such as the abdomen, buttocks or thigh. Currently there is no guidance on the frequency of dosage, but as a guide most practitioners tend to administer them once or twice a week.
Are They Safe to Use?
Lipotropic injections are marketed as a form of treatment to promote “fat burning”. However, there is limited research into their efficacy or what goes into each dose. Additionally, as with most nutritional supplements, lipotropic injections are not FDA-approved nor tested for safety, and may include the following side effects. If you notice these, consult your doctor:
- Knots
- Cysts
- Irregularities in the skin
- Scars
- Infection
- Pain
If you are considering lipotropic injections (or any form of weight loss treatment), always consult a registered healthcare professional, as they will be able to recommend the best dosage or even suggest an alternative treatment that may be more suited to your personal health needs and circumstances.
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