New product helps dieters by blocking sense of smell

One of the most powerful triggers for your appetite is your sense of smell. Therefore, according to Compellis Pharmaceuticals, the best way to curb overeating is to turn off smell receptors in the nose. It seems the company has discovered a drug that does just that.

Because of the Compellis' small size and lack of venture funding, the drug, called Spritz (diltiazem), won't even be considered for FDA approval until years of clinical trials have been completed, but the concept seems to make sense. As a doctor interviewed in the linked article points out, "When you have a cold, it really inhibits your urge to eat."

It seems the drug would be taken similarly to an anti-histamine nose spray, allowing users to "puff before you stuff."

It should be noted, however, that while appetite suppressants can be helpful to the morbidly obese, it's been proven time and again that if you're looking to lose weight, your best bet is to exercise.