While there are no published reports of negative side effects from using Hoodia Gordonii, there are some common sense guidelines one should follow.

There are many Hoodia products that are made using the whole plants, but the only part of the plant that contains the active ingredient is the core. Look for products that are concentrated using the active ingredient (‘p57′).

Because Hoodia works by tricking your brain into thinking your blood sugar levels are sufficiently high, it makes sense that people who need to constantly monitor their blood sugar levels (diabetics) should avoid taking it.

Hoodia works to not only suppress your appetite, but your thirst as well, making the risk of dehydration a real possibility. So remember to drink lots of water throughout the day if you are taking any Hoodia products.

There have been no reports of Hoodia reacting negatively with prescription medications, but you need to be aware that certain unscrupulous suppliers may include stimulants like caffeine and ephedrine in their Hoodia products.

Since there have been no long term studies done on the effects of Hoodia (it has only been on the market for a few years), the effects on people who take large amounts of it on a regular basis are still unknown.

Hoodia Gordonii (on it’s own) is not some type of magic pill. The best way to take Hoodia is as a supplement to a comprehensive weight loss program. This includes regular exercise, sensible eating habits, and drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Women who are nursing, people with kidney or liver problems ,and children should avoid taking Hoodia because the long term effects on the safety of these individuals has not yet been established.