Medications for Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a serious eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating. Binge eating is defined as eating large quantities of food in a short period of time, often until feeling uncomfortably full. People with BED may also experience a loss of control over their eating during these episodes.

Medications Used to Treat Binge Eating Disorder

Currently, only one medication is specifically approved by the FDA for the treatment of BED:

• Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX), sold under the brand name Vyvanse, is a stimulant medication. It is thought to work by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which can help to improve focus, attention, and energy levels. LDX may also help to reduce impulsivity and compulsive behaviors.

Other Medications That May Be Used to Treat BED

In addition to LDX, a number of other medications may be used to treat BED. These medications may include:

• Antidepressants, such as fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), or bupropion (Wellbutrin), may be helpful in treating BED, particularly when combined with psychotherapy.
• Antipsychotics, such as olanzapine (Zyprexa), risperidone (Risperdal), or quetiapine (Seroquel), may be helpful in treating BED, particularly when combined with psychotherapy.
• Mood stabilizers, such as lithium or valproic acid, may be helpful in treating BED, particularly when combined with psychotherapy.

Considerations Before Taking Medication for BED

Before taking any medication for BED, it is important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits. Some of the potential risks of taking medication for BED include:

• Side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, headache, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping.
• Drug interactions, which can occur when you take multiple medications at the same time.
• Misuse and addiction, which can occur when you take medication for BED in a way that is not prescribed by your doctor.

Conclusion

Medications can be an effective treatment for BED, but they are not a cure. Medications can help to reduce binge eating episodes and improve other symptoms of BED, but they do not address the underlying causes of the disorder. In order to fully recover from BED, it is important to combine medication with psychotherapy.