Hydroxycut

Hydroxycut is an over-the-counter weight-loss product. It comes in several different formulations, each of which contains many different active ingredients. It is not exactly known how (or if) most of these ingredients work for weight loss, but it is believed that some work to decrease blood sugar and reduce fat storage in the body. While some small studies have researched certain components of Hydroxycut, more research is needed to prove the effectiveness and safety of the product.

 

What Is Hydroxycut?

Hydroxycut® is one of the most popular weight-loss supplements on the market today. Currently, there are four different Hydroxycut formulations available, including:
 
  • Hydroxycut Weight Loss Formula
  • Hydroxycut 24, which contains daytime supplements (with stimulants) and nighttime supplements (without stimulants)
  • Hydroxycut Caffeine-Free
  • Hydroxycut Hardcore (which is significantly different from the other Hydroxycut products).
     
(Click Hydroxycut Uses for more information on what Hydroxycut is used for.)
 

Who Makes Hydroxycut?

Most Hydroxycut products are made by Iovate Health Sciences Research, Inc. However, Hydroxycut Hardcore is made by Muscletech.
 

How Does Hydroxycut Work?

At one point, Hydroxycut contained ephedra, although ephedra has since been banned due to safety concerns. Now, ephedra-free versions of Hydroxycut contain many different active ingredients, such as green tea extract, calcium, chromium, potassium, and various herbal blends. In general, it is not exactly known how (or if) most of these ingredients work, although some of these ingredients may work as stimulants, while others are said to work by decreasing blood sugar or reducing fat storage in the body.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;