Hydroxycut

Written by Matt McMillen
Medically Reviewed by Jabeen Begum, MD on February 05, 2025
3 min read

Hydroxycut is a popular brand of dietary supplements. The main ingredients in Hydroxycut products include a blend of caffeine, plant extracts, and other active compounds. The brand claims its supplements can boost metabolism, increase energy, and help you lose weight, but there is little scientific research to support those claims.

Hydroxycut Hardcore

Hydroxycut Hardcore is a line of Hydroxycut products marketed as more potent and intense than standard Hydroxycut products. Often targeted toward athletes and bodybuilders, these products typically contain higher levels of caffeine and other stimulants.

How is Hydroxycut Hardcore different from standard Hydroxycut?

The main difference between Hydroxycut Hardcore and standard Hydroxycut is the level of stimulants. Hydroxycut Hardcore products typically contain higher levels of caffeine and other stimulants, which can lead to increased energy, focus, and calorie burning. But, higher levels of stimulants can also increase the risk of side effects.

The Hydroxycut website cites two small studies showing that the main ingredient in its supplements, C. canephora robusta (green coffee extract),may be effective for weight loss. One study showed that when people took C. canephora robusta for 60 days, they lost about 10.95 pounds, while the placebo group lost an average of 5.40 pounds. Both groups were on a low-calorie diet. 

The other small eight-week study showed that those taking C. canephora robusta lost about 3.7 pounds vs the placebo group members, who lost 1.25 pounds. While these results are promising, more high-quality, larger studies need to be done to confirm if C. canephora robusta is actually helpful for weight loss.

Many experts question the safety of Hydroxycut products. The manufacturer, Iovate Health Sciences International, says it puts raw ingredients through extensive quality assurance procedures. Unlike drug manufacturers, supplement makers don’t have to show that their products are safe or effective before selling them.

Hydroxycut side effects

Some potential side effects of Hydroxycut include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Increased heart rate
  • High blood pressure

Hydroxycut recall

In 2009, the FDA warned consumers about Hydroxycut products due to reports of liver damage. Hydroxycut has also been linked to cases of rhabdomyolysis, a condition that can cause muscle breakdown and kidney failure. The manufacturer recalled the products and modified them. But there continue to be reports of serious adverse health effects.

Hydroxycut products are marketed with claims to help with weight loss and boost energy. The main ingredients in Hydroxycut are caffeine, plant extracts, and other active compounds. These can cause side effects in some people. There are also reports of liver damage and other serious health effects. If you are considering taking Hydroxycut, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects. Also, talk to your doctor, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

Who should not take Hydroxycut?

If you have any underlying health conditions, you should not take Hydroxycut products without consulting your doctor first. You should also avoid Hydroxycut if you are sensitive to stimulants or are taking other stimulant supplements or medications.

What lifestyle changes are required while taking Hydroxycut? 

There are no specific lifestyle changes suggested along with Hydroxycut. You may want to reduce or cut out caffeine from other sources in your diet. And, if weight loss is your goal, a healthy diet and regular exercise along with the supplement can improve your results.