Manufacturers of Ephedra Free Lipodrene, Hi Tech Pharmaceuticals based in Atlanta, GA, claim that their product includes a new fat burning technology which is twenty-nine percent more effective in burning fat calories and increasing metabolism than any other product on the market.

The Advanced Lipocatabolic System is a combination of herbs and lipotropics which supposedly burn fat, reduce cravings for sweets, and suppress appetite.  This diet pill also claims to be a natural diuretic and energy booster.  It promises that it inhibits the release of targeted enzymes that control fat storage.

The ingredients of Lipodrene are listed as a proprietary blend which means that the amount of each ingredient is not disclosed.  This can be misleading to consumers.  While it contains hoodia, the amount is not specified and studies have shown that in order for hoodia to be effective, a certain amount must be taken.  Lipodrene also contains green tea extract and caffeine which probably explains much of the appetite suppression promised.  Finally, citrus aurantium, which is another name for synephrine is found in Lipodrene.  This ingredient is the chemical sibling of ephedra, and I question its safety.

There have been mixed results in users of this product.  Some reported that they lost a few pounds quickly but then stabilized, while others reported losing nothing at all.  There were also reports of side effects such as dizziness, nausea, and jittery feelings (probably due to the high caffeine levels).

The credibility of Hi Tech must also come into question as they have recently been the subject of a criminal investigation.  They were accused of operating a manufacturing plant in Belize and producing knock-off drugs for sale in the United States.  The CEO of the company received 50 months in prison and a $50,000 fine.  The company itself was fined 3 million, and the others involved received lesser sentences and fines.  This alone should throw up a red flag when considering this product.