By DONNA DE LA CRUZ Associated Press Writer
© 2007 The Associated Press


Video Report WASHINGTON — Now that you've indulged in all those holiday goodies and made that New Year's resolution to shed some pounds, the government says don't count on a diet pill to help.


The Federal Trade Commission said Thursday it was fining the marketers of four weight-loss drugs a collective $25 million for false advertising claims. Despite that, the pills _ Xenadrine EFX, CortiSlim, One-A-Day WeightSmart and TrimSpa _ will remain on store shelves.


"It is resolution time again, isn't it?" said FTC Chairman Deborah Platt Majoras. "We're implementing our resolution to fight back against companies that use deceptive advertising claims."


Some of the products marketed their claims through infomercials or celebrity endorsements. Anna Nicole Smith, for example, has endorsed TrimSpa.


"Testimonials from individuals are not a substitute for science," Majoras said. "And that's what Americans need to understand."


The FTC investigated a variety of claims, including rapid weight loss and reduction in the risk of osteoporosis, Alzheimer's and even cancer, Majoras noted.