Side Effects of Lipozene (Glucomannan)

Glucomannan's secondary side effects is sleep loss due to the primary side effects. If you already have trouble sleeping, be careful with this supplement.

Lipozene is a weight loss herbal supplement also known as glucomannan or knojac fiber.  It’s available over the counter as opposed to a prescription drug.  It’s made from African plant roots.  Fiber is important to help make a person feel full and to keep the bowels regular.  Two 1500 milligram capsules are swallowed with a full glass of water a half hour before meals to help curb overeating.  Lipozene can cause embarrassing gastrointestinal side effects because of this powerful form of fiber.

Just because a supplement may be labeled “natural” doesn’t mean it’s free from side effects.  Always talk to a doctor or nutritionist before taking any herbal supplement, including Lipozene.  Some people are able to take half the recommended dose to avoid the worst of side effects, but halving the dose does not help everybody.  Themanufacturer urges all pregnant or nursing women to avoid Lipozene.

Common Side Effects

The most common side effects of Lipozene are similar to a spastic colon, drinking a prescription laxative or eating a bowl too many of your favorite high-fiber breakfast cereal.  Gas, intestinal pains, cramps from bloating and diarrhea can last for hours after taking Lipozene.  The intensity of these symptoms varies from person to person.

Because of these side effects, women who have spastic colon or diarrhea during their periods should not take Lipozene at those times.  People with hemorrhoids may find their symptoms flare up on Lipozene.  People who have already been diagnosed with gastrointestinal ailments like irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn’s disease may experience severe symptoms of their condition.  Anyone with these conditions should ask their doctor’s advice before taking.

Uncommon Side Effects

One uncommon side effect is an inability to swallow the capsules.  The fiber in Lipozene begins to expand when in contact with moisture.  This means that the pills can swell up to cause dangerous intestinal blockages. The pills may begin swelling up in the throat, causing pain.   This swelling is why Lipozene has beenbanned in Australia since 1985.

Another unusual aside effect is a sudden drop in blood sugar levels, which can make you drowsy or tired.  Anyone taking insulin or suffering from diabetes needs to keep their glucose levels as stable as possible.  Consult a doctor before taking Lipozene.  Your doctor may advise against taking glucomannan.

Warning

Some people are allergic to glucomannan.  These allergic reactions will happen within a few minutes of the very first dose. These allergic symptoms include sudden skin rashes, hives, difficulty breathing or a strange swelling of the face, tongue or throat.  If any of these symptoms occur, contact a doctor immediately.

If you are determined to take Lipozene anyway, make sure you are at home near a bed and a toilet in case of bad side effects. Try on a night before you have to work or go to a major event like a wedding because gastrointestinal upsets may keep you up all night.

Image of knojack plant by James Steakly for Wikimedia Commons.