Interest in weight management and metabolism support has led many people to try different supplements that claim to make the process easier. Products that promise to control appetite, increase energy, and support fat burning have gained popularity as more individuals seek simple solutions to support their weight loss goals. Dexatrim is a long-standing name in this category. Dexatrim is promoted as a product that helps with weight management through a blend that supports metabolism and calorie use. The supplement also claims to provide energy support. But does Dexatrim truly deliver on its promises? Can it provide noticeable weight support without the drawbacks often linked to stimulant-based products? In this review, we’ll examine the Dexatrim formula, honest customer feedback, possible side effects, and its pricing. Our goal is to provide you with a clear and unbiased breakdown, allowing you to decide if Dexatrim is worth considering as part of your weight management plan. We took a deep dive into the ingredients in Dexatrim to see if it truly supports weight loss and helps reduce stubborn fat in targeted areas.
Please Note: This Drug is no longer available in the United States.
What Was Dexatrim?
Dexatrim was a brand of over-the-counter diet pills popular in the late 20th century. The exact formula of Dexatrim changed throughout its history. Early versions contained significant amounts of caffeine and phenylpropanolamine (PPA), a stimulant with sympathomimetic effects. PPA was known to elevate blood pressure and increase the risk of stroke, leading to its eventual ban by the FDA in 2000. Later formulations of Dexatrim removed PPA and instead relied on different stimulant combinations, often including caffeine, guarana, and other herbal extracts. These later versions also included ingredients like fiber and other substances purported to aid in weight loss. Dexatrim aimed to promote weight loss through several mechanisms. The stimulant components, primarily caffeine and formerly PPA, acted to suppress appetite, increase energy expenditure, and boost metabolism. Other ingredients, such as fiber, could contribute to satiety by increasing fullness after meals. Dexatrim's popularity peaked during the era when diet pills were widely marketed and consumed. Its advertising campaigns often emphasized rapid weight loss, appealing to individuals seeking quick solutions to weight management.
Key Ingredients and Their Effects
A closer look shows that Dexatrim offers only a partial solution. Flawless Bloom's KetoFuse supplement , on the other hand, contains the same proven metabolism support ingredients found in Dexatrim (green tea extract and caffeine anhydrous) and combines them with powerful additions like raspberry ketones, African mango, apple cider vinegar powder, and grape seed extract.
Green Tea Extract
Green tea extract, particularly its active compound EGCG, has been shown in numerous studies to support fat loss and improve metabolic health.
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Caffeine Anhydrous
We’ve evaluated caffeine in controlled human trials, and the thermogenic effect is clear. In a double-blind trial of healthy adults, caffeine doses of 100-400 mg increased energy expenditure dose-dependently, with lactate and triglyceride responses tracking thermogenesis. Mechanistically, caffeine promotes the use of fat as fuel. In a metabolic chamber study, caffeine raised resting energy expenditure by approximately 13% and doubled lipid turnover, increasing fat oxidation under steady-state. These data support caffeine as an aid against stubborn fat.
Oolong Tea Extract
We dug into oolong tea and didn’t find outcomes that match a fat-targeting claim. A longer double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study reported ~20% higher fat oxidation over 24 hours, yet no increase in total energy expenditure and no assessments of body-fat or waist change.
7-Keto-DHEA
We reviewed human evidence on 7-Keto-DHEA and found it inconclusive. A recent systematic review of clinical trials identified only four randomized studies, with small samples, short durations, and mixed outcomes; the authors concluded there is no clear answer on weight-loss efficacy in humans. In the Lean System 7 randomized, placebo-controlled trial, an eight-week, multi-ingredient formula containing 7-Keto raised resting metabolic rate but produced no significant differences in body weight, BMI, or DEXA-measured body composition versus placebo; only hip circumference changed modestly.
Panax Ginseng
We examined Panax ginseng for weight control, and high-quality trials don’t show meaningful fat loss. Broader evidence aligns. A systematic review and meta-analysis in adults with metabolic risk reported no significant changes in body weight, BMI, or waist circumference with ginseng versus placebo across randomized trials. Asian (panax) ginseng is used for a wide variety of conditions-without US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approval-including aiding in thinking and memory, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and weight loss.[10] However, scientific data across a wide range of studies does not support the health claims associated with ginseng use.[10] Short-term use of ginseng (under 3 months) is unlikely to produce side effects and appears safe for most people. Side effects, often associated with longer term use, can include headaches, insomnia, and gastrointestinal problems. There are many conditions in which ginseng use has special precautions and warnings.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands (and by the testes in men), which can be converted in the body to male and female sex hormones, including estrogen and testosterone.[11] DHEA is used to treat a variety of conditions (without FDA approval) including aging, Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, erectile dysfunction, systemic lupus erythematosus, and for aiding in weight loss. There is insufficient data to support DHEA’s efficacy for weight loss.[11] The DHEA content in the daily recommended dose of Dexatrim Max ranges from 100-200 mg per day.[1] Side effects at this dose can include acne, hair loss, facial hair growth and deeper voice in women, stomach upset, and high blood pressure, particularly if the supplement is used for a longer period of time.[11] There are many conditions in which DHEA use has special precautions and warnings. [12]
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Side Effects and Precautions
The removal of PPA from Dexatrim highlights the significant safety concerns surrounding the product. The FDA's ban on PPA was a direct response to mounting evidence linking it to serious cardiovascular adverse events.
Dexatrim is generally considered safe for most healthy adults when taken as directed. That said, some users may experience mild side effects during use. These may include jitters, headaches, upset stomach, or trouble sleeping, especially if the capsules are taken too late in the day. It’s important to note that Dexatrim may not be suitable for everyone. Dexatrim contains caffeine and tea extracts.
Side effects include jitteriness, upset stomach, headaches, dizziness, and rapid heartbeat.
Common Side Effects
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Restlessness
- Trouble sleeping
To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute.
Serious Side Effects
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur:
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- Irregular heartbeat
- Vision problems
- Rash
- Nervousness
- Increased nasal congestion
- One-sided weakness
- Slurred speech
- Confusion
- Chest pain
- Difficulty urinating
- Mental/mood changes
Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of:
- Kidney problems
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Lung problems (e.g., asthma, emphysema)
- Thyroid problems
- Diabetes
- Glaucoma
- Prostate trouble
- Depression
- Allergies (especially drug allergies)
This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant.
Drug Interactions
This drug is not recommended for use with other "stimulant" drugs (e.g., amphetamine, caffeine, methylphenidate, other decongestants), MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, linezolid, selegiline). Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially of: tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline), reserpine, NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen).
Cardiovascular Adverse Events
Cardiovascular adverse effects may be associated with phenylpropanolamine (the active ingredient contained in Dexatrim). Phenylpropanolamine can cause a significant rise in heart rate. Hypertension and arrhythmias may be problematic in susceptible patients. Cardiovascular side effects have also included an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke.[Ref]Phenylpropanolamine causes vasoconstriction which usually does not result in blood pressure elevations in healthy adults given normally prescribed dosages. However, phenylpropanolamine administration may be problematic for patients with preexisting hypertension and those receiving higher dosages. In general, 75-mg of sustained-release phenylpropanolamine will not produce a significant increase in blood pressure in normotensive patients, but 150-mg of sustained-release phenylpropanolamine can.The combination of caffeine and phenylpropanolamine is more apt to cause hypertension. Although caffeine is no longer added to phenylpropanolamine as an anorexiant, this combination is available as "look-alikes" for amphetamines. Hypertensive crisis has occurred occasionally subsequent to overuse, overdose, and ingestion of normally recommended doses. Hypertensive crisis may be accompanied by headache, blurred vision, confusion, intracranial hemorrhage, encephalopathy, or seizures.Arrhythmias may be produced in predisposed patients. The majority of reports of arrhythmias involve overuse or overdose. Rarely, high doses of phenylpropanolamine may cause chest pain and evidence of myocardial injury.One study reported that taking phenylpropanolamine increases the risk of hemorrhagic stroke in women. Men may also be at risk. Although the risk of hemorrhagic stoke is very low, the FDA recommends that all use of phenylpropanolamine be discontinued.[Ref]
Nervous System
Phenylpropanolamine (the active ingredient contained in Dexatrim) produces nervous system stimulation, resulting in tremor, anxiety, insomnia, dizziness, and nervousness. Headache may also occur.[Ref]Seizures may occur in rare cases of hypertensive crisis and have been reported with normally recommended doses as well as in cases of overuse or overdose.There have been anecdotal reports of cerebrovascular hemorrhage largely associated with an uneven pattern of cerebrovascular spasm referred to as vascular beading. Vascular beading has also been reported in the absence of hemorrhage. Intracranial hemorrhage has almost always been associated with hypertension.[Ref]
Psychiatric
Psychiatric reactions occur infrequently but include acute mania, anxiety, paranoia, confusion, agitation, and hallucinations. These reactions may be more common in women.[Ref]Psychotic reactions to phenylpropanolamine have occurred in patients receiving normally recommended doses and in cases of abuse. In a few patients, phenylpropanolamine appears to have exacerbated an underlying bipolar disorder which was previously undiagnosed.A psychotic episode consisting of abnormal behavior was reported in a young woman following a week of therapy with Naldecon (phenylephrine, phenylpropanolamine, chlorpheniramine, and phenyltoloxamine) and amantadine. The patient had no personal or family history of psychiatric illness and no history of recreational substance use. It is uncertain whether the episode was due to the amantadine, the phenylpropanolamine, or another component in the Naldecon, or if it was an interaction between the drugs.[Ref]
Gastrointestinal
Gastrointestinal adverse effects most commonly seen are anorexia and gastric irritation. Nausea and vomiting have occurred in conjunction with hypertensive episodes.[Ref]
Hypersensitivity
Hypersensitivity reactions to phenylpropanolamine (the active ingredient contained in Dexatrim) may occur.[Ref]
Renal
Rarely, phenylpropanolamine (the active ingredient contained in Dexatrim) may cause acute interstitial nephritis.[Ref]
User Reviews and Experiences
Customer reviews of Dexatrim are mixed. Some users mention appetite control and a slight lift in energy, while others report side effects or say they noticed no real changes. The product is generally safe for most adults, but the stimulant base may cause side effects like jitters, restlessness, or sleep problems for some.
These reviews show the mixed nature of user experiences. While some highlight benefits in appetite control, others report unpleasant side effects and no noticeable weight support.
Dosage and How to Use
Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Long-acting (delayed-release) products must be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew. When used for an extended period, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing; your treatment may also be stopped or changed.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact you local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 36 and 86 degrees F (2 to 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
A Personal Experiment
Given the attention around Dexatrim, one of our team members decided to try it for a few weeks to see how it performs in real use. The product was easy to get started with. The instructions required taking two capsules with water, preferably 30 minutes before bedtime. Within the first few days, she noticed a slight increase in energy that made it easier to get through regular activities. However, she also reported side effects such as jitteriness, restlessness, and trouble sleeping if she took it later in the day. These issues were not extreme but enough to make her cautious about continued use. Dexatrim provided some modest support for energy and appetite, but the results were not consistent. Considering the side effects, the mixed experience, and the cost, she rated it a 6/10.
Alternatives to Dexatrim
While some newer products may contain similar stimulants, their formulations and marketing are subject to stricter scrutiny and regulations than those that applied to Dexatrim in its heyday. A great alternative to Dexatrim is Flawless Bloom’s KetoFuse. It combines green tea extract and caffeine with additional ingredients like raspberry ketones, African mango, and apple cider vinegar. Flawless Bloom's KetoFuse supplement, on the other hand, contains the same proven metabolism support ingredients found in Dexatrim (green tea extract and caffeine anhydrous) and combines them with powerful additions like raspberry ketones, African mango, apple cider vinegar powder, and grape seed extract. So, if you are serious about getting consistent support for weight management, Flawless Bloom's KetoFuse is the smarter solution. It combines research-backed ingredients with a formula that is easier to trust.
Lifestyle changes including diet and exercise are generally considered safer and more effective for sustainable weight loss than relying solely on supplements.
Historical Context
Dexatrim has been on the market for more than 45 years.[13] The brand was originally owned by Thompson Medical, which was acquired by Chattem in 1998. It is now part of Sanofi.[1] Dexatrim formula has changed considerably over the years. A 2000 study by Yale University School of Medicine showed an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke with taking PPA.[14] A case of myocardial injury was also reported using Dexatrim (with PPA) at doses recommended for weight control.[15] In 2000, following the request of the FDA to discontinue marketing drug products containing PPA,[16] Dexatrim dropped PPA from its formula. In 2004, FDA banned a second Dexatrim ingredient, ephedra. Currently, no over-the-counter weight-loss supplements have met criteria for recommended use by physicians.[20] Dexatrim claims to provide a powerful benefit for weight loss despite the lack of scientific data to support their claims. Dexatrim further provides a disclaimer that no claims of efficacy and safety made by Dexatrim have been approved by the FDA.[1] Although available OTC, the active ingredients in Dexatrim products carry risk of side effects, adverse reactions and adverse drug interactions, particularly if used at high-recommended or higher-than-recommended doses and/or for prolonged periods. The Dexatrim product itself carries a warning about the possible side effects of Dexatrim in patients with a history of high blood pressure, and also recommends the advice of a qualified physician before taking Dexatrim.
Common Questions About Dexatrim
Q1: Is Dexatrim still available?
A1: While the brand name may still exist, its formulations have changed significantly following the ban of PPA.
Q2: Was Dexatrim effective for weight loss?
A2: The effectiveness of Dexatrim, like many weight-loss supplements, is debatable.
Q3: What are the side effects of Dexatrim?
A3: Potential side effects varied depending on the formulation but included increased heart rate, insomnia, anxiety, jitters, and digestive issues.
Q4: Is Dexatrim safe?
A4: The safety of Dexatrim depends on its specific formulation and individual health conditions.
Q5: What are better alternatives to Dexatrim for weight loss?
A5: Lifestyle changes including diet and exercise are generally considered safer and more effective for sustainable weight loss than relying solely on supplements.