Indications
Cayenne pepper is a hot red chilli (Capsicum annuum) dried and ground into powder. As a food supplement it is used in weight-management products with the aim of slightly increasing calorie burning and reducing appetite, and it is traditionally used to support digestion and circulation. Any effect on weight is small and only seen alongside a healthy diet and regular activity.
How It Works
Its active substance, capsaicin, gives chilli its heat. Capsaicin can briefly raise body heat production and energy use (thermogenesis) and may reduce hunger for a short time. These effects are modest and people who eat chilli regularly may notice less effect.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label, with food and a glass of water to reduce stomach irritation. Do not open capsules, and wash your hands after handling the powder. Keep it away from the eyes, nose and broken skin.
Interactions
Capsaicin may increase the risk of bleeding with blood thinners such as Warfarin, Aspirin or Clopidogrel. It may lower blood sugar and blood pressure slightly, so take care with diabetes and blood pressure medicines. It may worsen the cough caused by ACE inhibitors such as Enalapril or Lisinopril, and may increase the absorption of Theophylline.
Contraindications
- Allergy to chilli or other peppers.
- Active stomach or duodenal ulcer, severe acid reflux or inflammatory bowel disease.
- Bleeding disorders, or within 2 weeks before planned surgery.
- Children.
Side Effects
Common effects include a burning feeling in the mouth, stomach or back passage, heartburn, stomach pain, sweating, a runny nose and loose stools.
Get urgent medical help if you have chest pain, a fast or irregular heartbeat, severe stomach pain, vomiting blood or black stools, or signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Chilli in normal food is fine. Concentrated cayenne supplements and weight-loss products are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so avoid them.
Precautions and Warnings
People with heart disease, high blood pressure or stomach problems should talk to a doctor before using weight-loss supplements. If powder gets in the eyes, rinse well with clean water. Weight-loss supplements do not replace medical treatment of obesity and related conditions.
Overdose
Large amounts can cause severe burning in the mouth and stomach, vomiting and diarrhoea. Get medical advice if symptoms are severe or if a child swallows a large amount.
Therapeutic Class
Herbal food supplement used in weight-management products.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.