by Preda A

This article can give you a general idea about each of the medicines listed below. Only the most general side effects are listed. Ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use medicine as advised by your doctor. If you have questions about use or side effects, contact your doctor.

These medicines do not offer a cure. They may help control certain problems caused by the disorders. This includes mental health and other conditions. These do not work for all people.

Prescription Medicines

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Tricyclic antidepressants

Other antidepressants

Atypical antipsychotic medicines

Other medicines

  • Topiramate

Over-the-Counter Medicines

Vitamin and mineral supplements

  • Calcium
  • Vitamin D

Prescription Medicines

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs help balance certain brain chemicals. They treat mental health problems such as anxiety or depression . In some cases, they may help control other actions linked to some eating disorders.

Some problems may be:

Tricyclic Antidepressants

Like SSRIs, these treat mood and anxiety disorders. But, they may not be the first choice for all people.

Some problems may be:

Other Antidepressants
  • Bupropion

This may be used if SSRIs did not work as expected. It is not used in those who have bulimia.

Some problems may be:

  • Nausea
  • Anxiety
  • Changes in hunger
  • Risk of mood and behavior changes—may involve thoughts of suicide in some people
Atypical Antipsychotic Medicines

These may be helpful for people with anorexia.

Some problems may be:

  • Lightheadedness
  • Sleepiness or problems sleeping
  • Vision problems
  • Changes in mood or thinking
  • Weight gain
  • Problems passing stool (poop)
  • Sexual problems
  • Headache
Other Medicines
  • Topiramate

This medicine is used to treat seizures. It may help ease the cycle of bingeing and purging linked to bulimia.

Some problems may be:

  • Sleepiness
  • Nervousness
  • Problems thinking clearly

Over-the-Counter Medicines

Vitamin and Mineral Supplements

Calcium and vitamin D may be used to stop bone loss.

Special Considerations

If you are taking medicines, follow these general guidelines:

  • Take your medicine as advised. Do not change the amount or schedule.
  • Be aware of the side effects of your medicine. Tell your doctor if you have any.
  • Talk to your doctor before you stop taking any prescription medicine.
  • Do not share your prescription medicine.
  • Medicines can be harmful when mixed. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking more than one. This includes over the counter products and supplements.
  • Plan for refills.

References

Anorexia nervosa. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:https://www.dynamed.com/condition/anorexia-nervosa. Accessed April 5, 2022.

Binge eating disorder. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/binge-eating-disorder. Accessed April 5, 2022.

Bulimia nervosa. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/bulimia-nervosa. Accessed April 5, 2022.

Eating disorders: About more than food. National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/eating-disorders. Accessed April 5, 2022.

Suicidality in children and adolescents being treated with antidepressant medications. US Food & Drug Administration website. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/PostmarketDrugSafetyInformationforPatientsandProviders/ucm161679.htm. Accessed April 5, 2022.

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