Liposuction is the most effective method of fat reduction that we currently know. But it is surgery and there is recovery and significant cost associated for its assured benefits. The concept of a topically applied agent that would provide some fat reduction has been one promoted and tried for decades. There have been many such cream and lotion products put forth but none have really had any scientific testing and proof that they are really effective.
A recent such product that I have come across is known as Body of Knowledge. This is a European product whose active ingredients are Theophylline and Liporeductyl. Theophylline is a well known compound most commonly used in the treatment of asthma. It has vasodilator effects which delivers more oxygen to the treated tissues which can help metabolize fat that it comes into contact. (lipolytic effect) Its effects have never been dramatic but they do exist. It has been used in fat burning and cellulite creams in the past with some documented effectiveness. Liporeductyl is a tripeptide compound that contains three ingredients that have been historically used in the treatment of cellulite. These include lecithin, caffeine and carnitine. It is purported to have a lipolytic effect and to improve microcirculation as well, hence reducing cellulite and having a slimming effect.
Putting these two compounds together into a topical cream would logically suggest that an effective fat reduction cream could be the result. There are a few limited clinical studies that report up to two inches off the waistline after two months of use. Numerous consumer testimonials can be found on the internet, usually on websites that are selling the product. It has a cost of $125 for an 8 oz. bottle.
Is this a miracle fat reducing cream? Some have even called it a liposuction cream, implying a significant effect. I think the answer is no. But this does not mean that it has no effect just that one should not expect any results to be dramatic. For minor amounts of slimming and even as a topical cream after liposuction, it may a useful role. The Liporeductyl component is highly touted for its anti-cellulite effect but its effects in this regard to date have been anectodal in my research. At its price for the bottle size, it is a pricey cream however.
Will a highly effective topical fat-burning cream ever be a reality? Based on compounds currently known it does not appear likely in the near future. New compounds are going to have to be discovered for a really significant advance. What we continue to see is recycling of known compounds in different formulations but with similar modest effects. For more significant effects, the use of devices such as Exilis or liposuction surgery is still required.
Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana