One of my college roommates is overweight. He doesn’t exercise, as far as I am aware. He’s got a bottle of ECA Stack, which is sitting on our bathroom vanity. He’s using it.
I know enough about what this supplement is supposed to do to realize that, if I were to take it, the side effects (or would they be the intended effects?!) would scare the living crap out of me.
For those of you that have never heard of this product, it is a combination of ephedrine, caffeine, and aspirin. The theory is that, between the two stimulants, it’s supposed to boost the bejeezus out of your metabolism. One assumes that it should at least badly elevate your heart rate (since it’s basically the same as taking 3 cups of coffee and a couple allergy pills, then chasing it with an anti-inflammatory) and at most really tax your sympathetic nervous system and circulatory system.
My question: How concerned should I be? Should I worry much that he’s taking this stuff? If so, is there something I can or should do about it, or should I just sit around and be ready to dial 911?
Large amounts of ephedra/ephedrine are not a good idea. In short order he will build up a tolerance to the pills and either stop taking them and look for amphetamines (just a worst case WAG), or he will increase his dosage.
If you want to help, your best bet is to get him into some regular exercise. Make it something fun so he doesn’t realize that he is exercising, a group activity is also probably a good idea.
I’m taking three 25mg doses of Ephedrine a day. (Max. “safe” dose is 100 mg/24hrs.) But I’m also doing situps, lifting dumbells and jogging. I’m very aware of the effects and am being careful.
If your roommate wants to lose weight he’s not going to do it just with ephedrine. He needs to exercise as well. Stackers get me pretty “amped”, and I can’t imagine using them an not exercising.
Your roommate should read the label carefully and take note of any ill effects. He should also not take more than 75mg in a 24 hour period, and he should not use them for an extended period. They can be dangerous.
To reiterate: Pills alone will not make him lose weight. The best way to boost the metabolism is to exercise. Pills may “jump start” the metabolism, allowing a more enthusiastic exercise regime, but they’re not a substitute for building muscle mass. A well-balanced diet is also important. I’m “starving” myself for a little while to shrink my stomach, but I’m still consuming nutritional stuff.
A few years ago I lost 65 pounds by having Slim Fast for breakfast and lunch, and then whatever I wanted for dinner (but not an American-sized portion), plus exercising 45 minutes every weekday morning. I’m only exercising 15 minutes now, but I’m doing a little more every morning. Start slow and build up. Ephedrine can help in the beginning, but be careful and realize that it isn’t magic.
My basic concern is pretty much whether or not he’s likely to make himself ill by taking this stuff, and if so, whether anyone has some idea how I can get him to stop. I mean, we’re college students here–we’ve got potentially 50+ more years to live, and having a chronic heart condition for the duration would sort of stink.
In regards to adam yax’s suggestion–yes, getting him started on a good, fun exercise routine would be a good idea. I probably can’t help him much there, though. I’m a rollerblading fanatic and I’ve been known to do typically 12-15 miles a day, but sometimes as much as 18. I really don’t do much else for exercise (besides some light weightlifting), so I’d have a hard time thinking of an activity for him to get into. I have offered to help get him started with skating (make sure he’s safe and using proper technique), but he’s yet to take me up on the offer.
And, spooje, although they may have somewhat of an appetite-suppressant effect, these products are advertised as “metabolic activators” or “thermogenic activators”. They’re supposed to have the effect Johnny L.A. mentioned-to get you “amped”. I take it, however, that stomach upset resulting in reduced appetite might be a side “bonus”.
FWIW (probably not much), I’d try to have a friendly discussion with this person about the medicine. You can express stuff you “heard” about potential health risks. Of course, not sounding self-righteous or judgmental. I did this with a roommate once and she actually changed her behavior. It’s not clear to me if the guy is abusing the OTC meds or merely using them.
Also, maybe suggest he look up the item on the Internet. Sounds like you’re your empathetic, caring person. Good for you, and good luck.
I would be worried. I used to have a big problem with Mini-Thins, Black Beauties, and other ephedrine-based products. I had to take them in the morning to wake up and take Benadryl or other OTC allergy pills to get to sleep. It was a bad situation, but thankfully I never touch the stuff anymore.
If your friend wants to lose weight, have him consult a doctor about a weight-loss program. And nevermind the products they advertise on TV; from what I understand, they don’t work either.
-Syko
“My cat’s breath smells like cat food.” - Ralph Wiggum