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Lewis YD, Bergner L, Steinberg H, Bentley J, Himmerich H. Pharmacological Studies in Eating Disorders: A Historical Review. Nutrients 2024; 16:594. [PMID: 38474723 PMCID: PMC11154472 DOI: 10.3390/nu16050594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Eating disorders (EDs) are serious mental health conditions characterised by impaired eating behaviours and nutrition as well as disturbed body image, entailing considerable mortality and morbidity. Psychopharmacological medication is an important component in the treatment of EDs. In this review, we performed a historic analysis of pharmacotherapeutic research in EDs based on the scientific studies included in the recently published World Federation of Societies for Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) guidelines for ED treatment. This analysis focuses on early approaches and trends in the methods of clinical pharmacological research in EDs, for example, the sample sizes of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). We found the development of psychopharmacological treatments for EDs followed advancements in psychiatric pharmacotherapy. However, the application of RCTs to the study of pharmacotherapy for EDs may be an impediment as limited participant numbers and inadequate research funding impede generalisability and statistical power. Moreover, current medication usage often deviates from guideline recommendations. In conclusion, the RCT model may not effectively capture the complexities of ED treatment, and funding limitations hinder research activity. Novel genetically/biologically based treatments are warranted. A more comprehensive understanding of EDs and individualised approaches should guide research and drug development for improved treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael D. Lewis
- Hadarim Eating Disorders Unit, Shalvata Mental Health Centre, Hod Hasharon 4534708, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Lukas Bergner
- Forschungsstelle für die Geschichte der Psychiatrie, Klinik und Poliklinik Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Medizinische Fakultät der Universität Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; (L.B.); (H.S.)
| | - Holger Steinberg
- Forschungsstelle für die Geschichte der Psychiatrie, Klinik und Poliklinik Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Medizinische Fakultät der Universität Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; (L.B.); (H.S.)
| | - Jessica Bentley
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AF, UK; (J.B.); (H.H.)
| | - Hubertus Himmerich
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London SE5 8AF, UK; (J.B.); (H.H.)
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London BR3 3BX, UK
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Rodan SC, Bryant E, Le A, Maloney D, Touyz S, McGregor IS, Maguire S. Pharmacotherapy, alternative and adjunctive therapies for eating disorders: findings from a rapid review. J Eat Disord 2023; 11:112. [PMID: 37415200 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-023-00833-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current review broadly summarises the evidence base for pharmacotherapies and adjunctive and alternative therapies in the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating. METHODS This paper forms part of a Rapid Review series examining the evidence base in the field of eating disorders. This was conducted to inform the Australian National Eating Disorder Research and Translation Strategy 2021-2030. ScienceDirect, PubMed and Ovid/Medline were searched for included studies published between 2009 and 2021 in English. High-level evidence such as meta-analyses, large population studies and randomised control trials were prioritised, and grey literature excluded. Data from included studies relating to pharmacotherapy, and to adjunctive and alternative therapies in eating disorders, were synthesised and disseminated in the current review. RESULTS A total of 121 studies were identified, relating to pharmacotherapy (n = 90), adjunctive therapies (n = 21) and alternative therapies (n = 22). Some of the identified studies involved combinations of the above (e.g. adjunctive pharmacotherapy). Evidence of efficacy of interventions across all three categories was very limited with few relevant high quality clinical trials. There was a particular scarcity of evidence around effective treatments for anorexia nervosa (AN). With treatment of bulimia nervosa (BN), fluoxetine has exhibited some efficacy leading to regulatory approval in some countries. With binge eating disorder (BED), recent evidence supports the use of lisdexamfetamine. Neurostimulation interventions show some emerging efficacy in the treatment of AN, BN and BED but some, such as deep brain stimulation can be highly invasive. CONCLUSION Despite widespread use of medications, this Rapid Review has identified a lack of effective medications and adjunctive and alternative therapies in the treatment of EDs. An intensification of high-quality clinical trial activity and drug discovery innovation are required to better assist patients suffering from EDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah-Catherine Rodan
- InsideOut Institute for Eating Disorders, Level 2, Charles Perkins Centre (D17), Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Emma Bryant
- InsideOut Institute for Eating Disorders, Level 2, Charles Perkins Centre (D17), Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Anvi Le
- Healthcare Management Advisors, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Danielle Maloney
- InsideOut Institute for Eating Disorders, Level 2, Charles Perkins Centre (D17), Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Stephen Touyz
- InsideOut Institute for Eating Disorders, Level 2, Charles Perkins Centre (D17), Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Sydney Local Health District, New South Wales Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Iain S McGregor
- Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sarah Maguire
- InsideOut Institute for Eating Disorders, Level 2, Charles Perkins Centre (D17), Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Sydney Local Health District, New South Wales Health, Sydney, Australia
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MacNeil BA, Thib S. Psychiatric medication use by Canadian adults prior to entering an outpatient eating disorders program: Types and combinations of medications, predictors of being on a medication, and clinical considerations. Psychiatry Res 2022; 317:114930. [PMID: 37732868 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the proportion of Canadian adults who were on psychiatric medication prior to entering specialized outpatient care for an eating disorder, the types and combinations of medications taken, and predictors of being on a medication. A retrospective chart review of 223 adults with an eating disorder was conducted. A large proportion of the adults (61%) had been prescribed a psychiatric medication prior to entering specialized outpatient care. Of these adults, 74.6% were prescribed one medication and 24.3% were on a combination of two or more. Antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications were the most commonly prescribed (78%), while stimulant medications (2.1%), benzodiazepines (13.7%), and antipsychotics (10.7%) were also reported. Being at a higher weight status was a significant predictor of being on a psychiatric medication at intake assessment. Adults with comorbid depression were 2.68 times more likely to be on a psychiatric medication. Although the number of Canadian adults on psychiatric medication may well exceed the documented efficacy of these medications for eating disorders, psychopharmacological intervention could have been aimed at targeting comorbid conditions. Clinicians specializing in pharmacology and eating disorders may have an important role to provide psychoeducation to all providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brad A MacNeil
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Doctoral Clinical Psychology Program, Midwestern University 19555N 59th Ave, Glendale AZ 85308.
| | - Sydney Thib
- Women's College Hospital, 76 Grenville St., Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 1B2
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Identifying medications that may be used as therapeutic agents for eating disorders is a longstanding focus of research, with varying degrees of success. The present review consolidates the most recent findings on pharmacological treatment of three eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and binge eating disorder (BED). RECENT FINDINGS Recent research suggests that olanzapine demonstrates positive effects on weight gain among outpatients with AN. There are fewer recent advances in psychopharmacological treatment for BN and BED, likely due to the relative success of prior medication trials. Olanzapine is the first medication to safely promote weight gain among individuals with AN. Fluoxetine is FDA-approved for BN treatment, and lisdexamfetamine is FDA-approved for BED treatment. BN and BED also generally respond well to SSRIs prescribed off-label. Research on psychopharmacological treatments for other eating disorders, such as avoidant-restrictive food intake disorder and other specified feeding and eating disorders, are sorely needed.
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Dalton B, McClelland J, Bartholdy S, Kekic M, Campbell IC, Schmidt U. A preliminary exploration of the effect of concurrent antidepressant medication on responses to high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in severe, enduring anorexia nervosa. J Eat Disord 2021; 9:16. [PMID: 33509288 PMCID: PMC7845115 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-021-00370-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a promising treatment option for people with severe, enduring anorexia nervosa (SE-AN). As depression is often comorbid with AN, antidepressant medication is commonly prescribed to this patient group. Concurrent antidepressant medications may affect the rTMS treatment response. Therefore, in a secondary analysis of data from a feasibility trial, we explored the effect of antidepressant medication on responses to rTMS in people with SE-AN. METHODS Twenty-six participants with SE-AN received 20 sessions (over 4 weeks) of neuronavigated high-frequency real rTMS to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Eating disorder (ED) and general psychopathology symptoms were assessed at baseline, post-treatment and at a 4-month follow-up. RESULTS Participants taking antidepressants (n = 16) for the duration of the rTMS treatment had a greater reduction in ED symptoms at the 4-month follow-up, compared to those not taking antidepressants (n = 10). Antidepressant status was not however associated with significant changes in mood outcomes. CONCLUSIONS In people with SE-AN receiving rTMS treatment, preliminary findings suggest a potential synergistic effect of antidepressant medication in reducing ED symptomatology. There was however no associated reduction in affective symptoms i.e., the effect does not seem to be related to changes in mood. The sample in this exploratory study was small and heterogenous. However, the preliminary results provide a basis for hypothesis generation for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethan Dalton
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Jessica McClelland
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Savani Bartholdy
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Maria Kekic
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Iain C Campbell
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Ulrike Schmidt
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK. .,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AZ, UK.
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Muratore AF, Attia E. Current Therapeutic Approaches to Anorexia Nervosa: State of the Art. Clin Ther 2020; 43:85-94. [PMID: 33293054 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2020.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a devastating psychiatric disorder characterized by extreme restriction of food intake and low body weight, both associated with significant medical and psychological morbidity. The clinical severity of AN has prompted the consideration and study of behavioral and pharmacological treatments in efforts to establish empirically based methods to reduce the burden of the disorder. Among adolescents, family-based treatment is considered a first-line behavioral treatment. Research continues to explore the efficacy of family-based treatment and predictors of treatment response to further improve outcomes. Several behavioral treatments for adults also exist, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure and response prevention, third-wave acceptance-based treatments, and supportive psychotherapy, all of which help to improve symptoms and promote modest weight gain. Despite this, no one treatment is considered superior, and all existing behavioral approaches leave a proportion of adults symptomatic or at a high risk of relapse. As such, among adults, there is continued need for development of novel, mechanism-based approaches to better target the core symptoms of AN. Although antidepressants impart little benefit on weight or symptoms, the second-generation antipsychotic olanzapine has shown ability to promote modest weight gain in outpatients with AN. Most recently, the field's evolving conceptualization of AN as a biologically based disorder coupled with technological advancements has led to consideration of varying neuromodulation strategies as a potential therapeutic approach that remains under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra F Muratore
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Evelyn Attia
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
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Gorrell S, Lebow J, Kinasz K, Mitchell JE, Goldschmidt AB, Le Grange D, Accurso EC. Psychotropic medication use in treatment-seeking youth with eating disorders. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2020; 28:739-749. [PMID: 32926514 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Psychotropic medication use in youth with eating disorders (EDs) is poorly understood despite high co-occurrence of psychiatric disorders. This study examined characteristics associated with medication use in treatment-seeking youth with EDs. METHOD Youth up to age 18 reported on medication use when presenting to an academic medical center outpatient ED service in the United States. Data presented were collected between 1998-2015. RESULTS The sample (N = 604) was predominantly female (90.6%) with a mean age of 15.3 years (SD = 2.3). Approximately one-third (30%, n = 173) were taking psychotropic medications (40%, n = 70, were taking multiple medications). Antidepressant use was most common (26%, n = 152), followed by atypical antipsychotics (8%, n = 43). Adjusting for co-occurring psychiatric disorders, non-Hispanic Whites who had received prior treatment (psychotherapy, hospitalization) were significantly more likely to be using medication. Longer illness duration and prior treatment were associated with greater antidepressant use. For atypical antipsychotics, prior hospitalization was associated with greater use. CONCLUSIONS Findings confirm moderate psychotropic medication use among young patients with EDs despite a lack of clarity regarding optimally effective pharmacologic interventions in this population. Pharmacological trials examining the efficacy of medications for young patients with EDs are warranted to inform future prescribing practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasha Gorrell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jocelyn Lebow
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kathryn Kinasz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - James E Mitchell
- Sanford Biobehavioral Research Institute, Fargo, North Dakota, USA.,School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Andrea B Goldschmidt
- Weight Control and Diabetes Research Center, The Miriam Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Daniel Le Grange
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA.,Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Neuroscience, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Erin C Accurso
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
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Çöpür S, Çöpür M. Olanzapine in the treatment of anorexia nervosa: a systematic review. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROSURGERY 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s41983-020-00195-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractAnorexia nervosa, with the highest mortality rate among psychiatric diseases, is characterized by low body mass index, fear of weight gain, and disturbed body image. Even though multiple drugs have been proposed for the treatment of anorexia nervosa, current treatment modalities include nutritional support and psychotherapy. In this study, our aim is to analyze the efficiency and possible adverse effects of olanzapine, an atypical anti-psychotic drug, in the treatment of anorexia nervosa. The studies investigating the efficiency and possible adverse effects of olanzapine in anorexia nervosa have been searched by using 3 databases (Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Library). DerSimonian-Laird random effects meta-analyses have been used in the statistical analysis. Effect of olanzapine treatment in accordance with the duration and dosage of drug have been analyzed by the determination of 95% confidence intervals (p value < 0.05 is considered as statistically significant). Despite the presence of some contradictory studies, olanzapine treatment has been found beneficial in anorexia nervosa. In addition, analysis reveals that statistically significant beneficial effect of olanzapine treatment is used at high doses and for short duration. Possible side effects include neuroleptic malignant syndrome, hypoglycemia, and heart block in patients suffering from anorexia nervosa. Even though there is obvious need for more comprehensive further studies, current literature favors olanzapine treatment. The efficiency of olanzapine is considered to be related to changes in dopaminergic and serotonergic system in anorexic patients both in terms of neurotransmitter levels and receptor activity.
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Giannopoulou I, Kotopoulea-Nikolaidi M, Daskou S, Martyn K, Patel A. Mindfulness in Eating Is Inversely Related to Binge Eating and Mood Disturbances in University Students in Health-Related Disciplines. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12020396. [PMID: 32024270 PMCID: PMC7071141 DOI: 10.3390/nu12020396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between mindful eating, disordered eating and mood in university students in health-related disciplines. A total of 221 university students participated in the study; 102 students studied sport and exercise science (SS), 54 students pharmacy sciences (PS), and 65 students health sciences (HS). Participants completed the Binge Eating Scale (BES), the Mindful Eating Questionnaire (MEQ), and the Profile of Mood State questionnaire (POMS). 41% of the students were classified as binge eaters and 57% were above the POMS threshold of depression. Binge eaters were found to have significantly lower MEQ score and significantly higher total mood disturbance scores (TMD) compared to non-binge eaters (p < 0.01). Students with a high depression score exhibited no differences in the MEQ score but a significantly higher BES score compared to non-depressed students (p < 0.01). Gender differences were found in the MEQ with females exhibiting significantly higher scores in the MEQ score and in all MEQ subscales compared to males, with the exception of the emotional subscale that females were noted to have a lower score compared to males (p < 0.01). The MEQ score was inversely related to the BES score (r = −0.30, p < 0.01) and TMD (r = −0.21, p < 0.05). The MEQ score was a significant negative predictor of the variance of the binge eating behavior of the students (B = −3.17, p < 0.001). In conclusion, mindfulness in eating is inversely related to the binge eating behavior and mood state of university students studying health-related subjects and is a significant negative predictor of disordered eating behavior in this high risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ifigeneia Giannopoulou
- Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Physiology and Nutrition Sciences University of Brighton, Hillbrow, Denton Road, Eastbourne BN20 7SR, UK;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +77-0290-2446
| | | | - Sofia Daskou
- Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG1 4FQ, UK;
| | - Kathy Martyn
- University of Brighton, School of Health Sciences, Eastbourne BN2 07SR, UK;
| | - Ashani Patel
- Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Physiology and Nutrition Sciences University of Brighton, Hillbrow, Denton Road, Eastbourne BN20 7SR, UK;
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Couturier J, Isserlin L, Spettigue W, Norris M. Psychotropic Medication for Children and Adolescents with Eating Disorders. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2019; 28:583-592. [PMID: 31443877 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2019.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Psychotropic medications are commonly used in the treatment of eating disorders in children and adolescents. This article reviews the evidence base on psychotropic medications, including all randomized trials, uncontrolled trials, and case reports for the treatment of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, other specified feeding and eating disorders, binge-eating disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. Despite advances in the number of medication-based studies completed in young patients with eating disorders over the last 2 decades, significantly more work needs to be done in terms of identifying what role, if any, psychotropic medications can have on treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Couturier
- McMaster University, McMaster Children's Hospital, 1200 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario L8N 3Z5, Canada.
| | - Leanna Isserlin
- University of Ottawa, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8L1, Canada
| | - Wendy Spettigue
- University of Ottawa, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8L1, Canada
| | - Mark Norris
- University of Ottawa, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8L1, Canada
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Yokokura M, Terada T, Bunai T, Nakaizumi K, Kato Y, Yoshikawa E, Futatsubashi M, Suzuki K, Yamasue H, Ouchi Y. Alterations in serotonin transporter and body image-related cognition in anorexia nervosa. NEUROIMAGE-CLINICAL 2019; 23:101928. [PMID: 31491815 PMCID: PMC6627582 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2019.101928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The serotonin system has been implicated in the pathophysiology of anorexia nervosa (AN). A recent report proposed that body image distortion (BID), a core symptom of AN, may relate to abnormalities of the serotonin system, especially the serotonin transporter (5HTT). Positron emission tomography (PET) studies of underweight patients with active AN reported alterations in serotonin receptors, but not 5HTT. Here, we aimed to disclose the clinicopathophysiology of AN by focusing on 5HTT and cognitive functions, including BID, in groups with active AN. Twenty-two underweight female patients with AN (12 restricting-type AN (ANR); 10 binge-eating/purging-type AN (ANBP)) and 20 age-matched healthy female subjects underwent PET with a 5HTT radioligand [11C]DASB. The binding potential (BPND) of [11C]DASB was estimated semiquantitatively, and clinical data from Raven's colored progressive matrices for general intelligence, the Stroop test for focused attention, the Iowa gambling task for decision making and a dot-probe task designed for BID were compared with the levels of BPND in different groups. [11C]DASB BPND was significantly decreased in the medial parietal cortex in patients with AN and in the dorsal raphe in patients with ANR compared with healthy subjects (p < .05 corrected). Patients with ANR showed a significantly negative correlation between [11C]DASB BPND in the dorsal raphe and performance on the dot-probe task (p < .05 corrected). While reduced 5HTT in the medial parietal cortex (the somatosensory association area) is pathophysiologically important in AN in general, additional 5HTT reduction in the dorsal raphe as seen in ANR is implicated for the clinicopathophysiological relevance. 5HTT decreased in the parietal cortex in patients with AN. 5HTT decreased in the parietal cortex in patients with ANBP. 5HTT decreased in the parietal cortex and the dorsal raphe in patients with ANR. Patients with AN were poor at responding to the test for body image distortion (BID). 5HTT in the dorsal raphe was associated with cognitive performance of BID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masamichi Yokokura
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Tatsuhiro Terada
- Department of Biofunctional Imaging, Preeminent Medical Photonics Education & Research Center, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Tomoyasu Bunai
- Department of Biofunctional Imaging, Preeminent Medical Photonics Education & Research Center, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Kyoko Nakaizumi
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Kato
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Etsuji Yoshikawa
- Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Masami Futatsubashi
- Hamamatsu PET Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Katsuaki Suzuki
- Department of Biofunctional Imaging, Preeminent Medical Photonics Education & Research Center, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Hidenori Yamasue
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Yasuomi Ouchi
- Department of Biofunctional Imaging, Preeminent Medical Photonics Education & Research Center, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan.
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Luzier J, Rached K, Talley J. Relapse prevention and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor medication in two adolescents with anorexia nervosa. Int J Eat Disord 2019; 52:863-867. [PMID: 31081553 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Revised: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Clinicians and researchers have long struggled to find effective treatments for people with anorexia nervosa (AN). Although most clinical guidance suggests that selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medication is not an effective first-line treatment for AN, in practice, these medicines continue to be frequently prescribed for comorbid diagnoses. METHOD In this case report, two adolescents who were in sustained remission from AN either relapsed or began to decline significantly once their dose of SSRI medication was tapered. RESULTS In Case A, despite a very slow and measured taper, this child dropped significant weight in a short amount of time after the medication was discontinued. Fortunately for Case B, symptoms emerged before the taper was complete, and providers could quickly increase the dose of medication early in her struggle with AN thoughts and urges. DISCUSSION A brief review of literature regarding SSRI medication use in AN is presented along with considerations for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Luzier
- West Virginia University Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, WVU School of Medicine - Charleston Division, Charleston, West Virginia
| | - Kristina Rached
- Psychiatry Residency, Charleston Area Medical Center, Charleston, West Virginia
| | - Jessica Talley
- West Virginia University Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, WVU School of Medicine - Charleston Division, Charleston, West Virginia
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Medication in AN: A Multidisciplinary Overview of Meta-Analyses and Systematic Reviews. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8020278. [PMID: 30823566 PMCID: PMC6406645 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8020278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Drugs are widely prescribed for anorexia nervosa in the nutritional, somatic, and psychiatric fields. There is no systematic overview in the literature, which simultaneously covers all these types of medication. The main aims of this paper are (1) to offer clinicians an overview of the evidence-based data in the literature concerning the medication (psychotropic drugs and medication for somatic and nutritional complications) in the field of anorexia nervosa since the 1960s, (2) to draw practical conclusions for everyday practise and future research. Searches were performed on three online databases, namely MEDLINE, Epistemonikos and Web of Science. Papers published between September 2011 and January 2019 were considered. Evidence-based data were identified from meta-analyses, if there were none, from systematic reviews, and otherwise from trials (randomized or if not open-label studies). Evidence-based results are scarce. No psychotropic medication has proved efficacious in terms of weight gain, and there is only weak data suggesting it can alleviate certain psychiatric symptoms. Concerning nutritional and somatic conditions, while there is no specific, approved medication, it seems essential not to neglect the interest of innovative therapeutic strategies to treat multi-organic comorbidities. In the final section we discuss how to use these medications in the overall approach to the treatment of anorexia nervosa.
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Psychotropic usage by patients presenting to an academic eating disorders program. Eat Weight Disord 2018; 23:769-774. [PMID: 29882037 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-018-0520-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess psychotropic use patterns and possible associations with age, eating disorder diagnosis and psychiatric comorbidity in adolescents and young adults with a primary eating disorder. METHODS A retrospective chart review of 86 consecutive patients with a primary eating disorder from August 2012 to December 2014 was conducted. Patients presented for a multidisciplinary evaluation at a United States-based academic program for eating disorders. RESULTS Nearly half (45.3%) of the patients reported being on a psychotropic medication. Antidepressants were the most reported category, prescribed in 38.4% of the patients evaluated. There was a significant association between the type of eating disorder and the number of psychotropics prescribed. Patients with a diagnosis of other specified feeding or eating disorder reported more prescriptions upon presentation than patients with anorexia nervosa. Despite the finding that a significant minority of patients had a psychiatric comorbidity, this did not appear to increase the likelihood of psychotropic usage over those diagnosed with an eating disorder alone. In addition, patients with a longer duration of illness and patients with a history of non-suicidal self-injury were more likely to present to treatment on psychotropic medications. CONCLUSIONS Psychotropic medications appear to be commonly prescribed among individuals evaluated in a tertiary care center for an eating disorder. Given that psychotropics are not recommended as the primary intervention for eating disorders, the frequency may be indicative of practitioners not following research-informed practice guidelines. The differences observed may also reflect complexities related to clinical features or illness history. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level V: Descriptive study.
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Abstract
Introduction: Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a severe psychiatric disorder that is difficult to treat and is associated with frequent relapses and high mortality rates. Psychiatric symptomatology (eg, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder/behaviors) are common comorbidities. This review provides current information about safety and efficacy of antidepressant therapy for management of AN in adults. Methods: A literature review of randomized controlled trials, open-label studies, and case reports with adults or adults/adolescents was conducted. PubMed and Medline were searched using anorexia management and treatment, antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), fluoxetine, sertraline, citalopram, and mirtazapine in AN, relapse prevention in AN, and psychotropic medications in AN. Results: The role and utility of antidepressants in AN were published in double-blind, placebo-controlled studies; open-label trials; and a retrospective study. Antidepressants should not be used as sole therapy for AN although their use for confounding symptomatology makes discerning efficacy difficult as they are given together with other therapies. Neurobiological changes due to starvation and AN itself complicate results interpretation. For safety, tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors are not recommended, and bupropion is contraindicated. Use of SSRIs during acute treatment lacks efficacy. Use of SSRIs—primarily fluoxetine and to some extent citalopram, sertraline, or mirtazapine—may aid in relapse prevention and improvement of psychiatric symptomatology in weight-restored anorexic patients. Discussion: Health care professionals should use clinical judgment regarding fluoxetine or possibly citalopram, sertraline or mirtazapine as adjunctive treatment to psychotherapy for relapse prevention, improvement of depressive and anxiety symptoms, and/or obsessive-compulsive behaviors unresolved with nutritional rehabilitation and psychotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marketa Marvanova
- Chair and Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Professions, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota,
| | - Kirstin Gramith
- PGY-1 Resident, University of Minnesota, Postgraduate Pharmacy Residency Program, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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