Uses
The plant is known for its appetite suppressant effects which were discovered by a Dutch anthropologist. The nomadic Bushmen, who called the palnt Xhoba, ate the stem to avoid hunger during long hunting trips. The P57 active ingredient in Hoodia is the appetite-suppressing and it is now even being researched upon as an anti-obesity drug. P57 acts on the brain like glucose nd tricks it into 'feeling full' even when you have not eaten. This reduces interest in food and subsequently, in the required weight loss.

Dosage
The drug must be taken in consultation with and according to the prescription drawn by the doctor.

Side Effects
Hoodia is not a stimulant, and appears to be safe for most people. However, you need to talk to your doctor about any side effect that you develop. You need to consult the doctor if you have diabetes or any heart problems. However, the administration of hoodia without clinical support could result in dizziness.

Drug precautions
You need to avoid Hoodia in the case of any side effect. Hoodia has not been evaluated and all the potential risks may not be known yet. Hoodia should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination. There are many phamacies that capitalise on the name 'hoodia' and sell products that do not even contain the required amount of the plant extract that is needed for the medication to be effective.

Drug Interactions
It should be avoided in the case you are already taking any heart medicine or if you have a blood clotting disorder. The drug should be avoided in a combination with aspirin, Coumadin or heparin. You should avoid taking hoodia if you are clinically proven with anorexia or bulimia.

Overdose
In case of an overdose, you need to consult the doctor. Do not try any corrective measures on your own. Inform the doctor and seek medical assistance immediately and do not try any remedial measures yourself. The use of Hoodia may be different from the regular Western medicine. When considering the use of hoodia, consultation with a primary health care professional is very necessary. Additionally, in the case of an overdose, you should seek medical help immediately.

Missed Dose
In the case of a missed dose of Hoodia, you need to consult your doctor, or health care provider, prior to any corrective measure. Do not indulge in a double dose. You could go on with the next advised dose at the time set by the doctor.

Storage
Hoodia, just like other drugs needs to be stored in a cool, dry place and kept away from children. It is a habit with adolescents to over indulge in excess and more so in the case of hoodia, the drug that can result in weight loss. Hence, the drug should be kept out of their reach, unless prescribed by the doctor.