Relacore

Relacore is a non-prescription weight loss supplement. It is available in two formulations: the original formula and a nighttime formula. The products claim to cause significant weight loss by reducing the level of cortisol (a "stress hormone"). However, no reliable studies have shown that Relacore actually reduces cortisol levels. More research is necessary to prove that the supplement is safe and effective for weight loss.
 

What Is Relacore?

Relacore® is a weight loss supplement that is available in two forms: original Relacore and Relacore PM (a nighttime formulation).
 
(Click Relacore Uses for more information.)
 

Who Makes It?

Relacore products are made by Carter-Reed Company.
 

What's in Relacore?

Original Relacore contains the following active ingredients:
 
Relacore PM contains the same active ingredients as the original version, plus lemon balm.
 

How Does It Work?

Relacore products claim to cause significant weight loss (especially loss of belly fat) by reducing the level of cortisol (a "stress hormone"). However, no reliable studies have shown that the supplement actually reduces cortisol. In particular, it is often claimed that magnolia bark reduces cortisol levels, although research has shown that magnolia bark has no effect on either cortisol or weight loss. In fact, magnolia bark may actually increase the levels of corticosterone, a hormone similar to cortisol. There is a little evidence to suggest that magnolia bark may reduce anxiety, but this does not mean that it causes weight loss or lowers cortisol levels.
 

Is Relacore Effective?

There is a lack of scientific evidence to support a conclusion that Relacore is effective for weight loss. No adequate research studies have been performed and published using the supplement for this purpose.
 
(Click Does Relacore Work? for more information. You can also click How to Lose Weight to find helpful suggestions for losing weight.)
 

Dosing Information

The manufacturer recommends a specific dose of Relacore, even though the safe and effective dose for most of the active ingredients in it has not yet been determined (see Relacore Dosage for more information).
 

Side Effects of Relacore

Because Relacore products have not been adequately studied, very little is known about the potential side effects. Based on the side effects reported from the individual active ingredients of the supplement, a few of the possible side effects include:
 
(Click Relacore Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions

Relacore can interact with a number of different medications (see Relacore Drug Interactions).
 

Is Relacore Safe?

Some people may be more likely to experience problems due to drugs and supplements. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Relacore if you have:
 
  • Diabetes
  • A bleeding disorder
  • Any health problems or concerns
  • Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Is Relacore Safe? for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose?

It is not known what to expect from a Relacore overdose. If you happen to take too much, seek medical attention right away.
 
(Click Relacore Overdose for more information.)
 

How Should Relacore Be Stored?

Refer to the label of your individual product for information on how best to store it. Keep the supplement out of the reach of children.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;