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Hydroxycitric acid is a substance often found in diet pills and weight loss supplements. This eMedTV Web page provides a detailed overview on the product, including information on how it works, possible side effects, dosing information, and more.
This eMedTV article explains why so little is known about possible side effects of hydroxycitric acid. Known side effects are listed, as are signs of a potentially serious allergic reaction, which should be reported to your healthcare provider.
Today, hydroxycitric acid is used for weight loss, although that was not its original purpose. This eMedTV page describes the original uses and how it may work to help people lose weight. Hydroxycitric acid uses in children are also discussed.
Is hydroxycitric acid safe? This eMedTV resource provides several precautions and warnings people should be aware of before taking the supplement, including conditions to tell your healthcare provider about and a list of people who should avoid it.
A hydroxycitric acid dose of 500 mg three times daily was used in research studies; however, as this eMedTV resource explains, it's unclear if this is the best dose. General hydroxycitric acid dosing guidelines are also provided.
There are no known drug interactions with hydroxycitric acid at this time. However, as this eMedTV page explains, that doesn't mean that none exist. Possible interactions are discussed, as is the importance of discussing the issue with your doctor.
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