Anorexia nervosa antidepressants

There are several reasons to anticipate that antidepressants might be effective in the treatment of anorexia nervosa. Malnutrition has been shown to produce a syndrome that is virtually indistinguishable from depression, with anhedonia, weight loss, motor retardation, anergia, and decreased ability to think or concentrate. In addition, the high association of co-morbidity between anorexia nervosa and mood disturbances, as well as the preponderance of mood disorders in first-degree relatives of those with anorexia nervosa, have led some clinicians to consider and treat this condition as a depressive variant. 

The role of medication in the treatment of bulimia nervosa seems better established than its role in the treatment of anorexia nervosa. The American Psychiatric Association Practice Guideline for Eating Disorders ( 510) suggests that antidepressants may be useful in bulimia nervosa with or without depression. They may be particularly helpful, however, in those with depression, anxiety, obsessions, or who have failed psychosocial therapies. 

Studies show that the SSRIs may help alcoholics reduce the amount of alcohol they consume and also increase the number of days they can abstain from alcohol. Patients with anorexia nervosa may also be helped by antidepressants. No other treatment has been approved by the FDA for this eating disorder, but the antidepressants are helping patients maintain their weight and avoid relapse. 

Therapeutic uses The primary indication for fluoxetine is depression, where it is as effective as the tricyclic antidepressants. Fluoxetine is effective in treating bulimia nervosa and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The drug has been used for a variety of other indications, including anorexia nervosa, panic disorder, pain associated with diabetic neuropathy, and for premenstrual syndrome. 

SSRIs are effective in milder cases of the eating disorder bulimia nervosa, particularly fluoxetine (in higher doses than are required for depression). This effect is independent of that on depression (which may co-exist) and may therefore involve action on transmitter systems other than those involved in modulating depression. Antidepressants appear to be ineffective in anorexia nervosa. 

Three main classes of drugs have been considered in the treatment of anorexia nervosa antipsychotics, antidepressants and antihistamines. 

In conclusion, while the core symptoms of anorexia nervosa appear to be largely refractory to psychotropic drugs, it would appear, on the basis of the limited trial data, that the newer antipsychotic compounds, such as olanzapine and amisulpiride, show promise. Antidepressant drugs can help to reduce the relapse rate after successful treatment (Casper 2002). 

The female client diagnosed with anorexia nervosa is in the inpatient psychiatric unit receiving amitriptyline (Elavil), an antidepressant, and cyproheptadine (Periactin), an antihistamine. Which data suggests the medications are effective ... 

The 16-year-old client diagnosed with anorexia nervosa who is receiving amitriptyline (Elavil), a tricyclic antidepressant. 

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