Eating Disorders - Treatment for Anorexia

Anti-Anxiety Drugs. Patients with anxiety disorders and anorexia may also benefit from otherdrugs that treat anxiety. [See In-Depth Report #28: Anxiety.]

Atypical Antipsychotics. Certain drugs, called atypical antipsychotics, are currently used for schizophrenia and bipolar disorders. Not only are they useful for stabilizing mood but they also produce significant weight gain. Specific drugs that may be helpful for patients with severe treatment-resistant anorexia include olanzapine (Zyprexa).

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Drugs and Supplementsto Restore Hormonal Function and Bone Density

Oral Contraceptives. Although abnormal reproductive hormone balances appear to be more important in bone loss than low weight, the use of oral contraceptives (OCs), which contain estrogen and progestin, have had mixed results, with many showing no improvement. Still, it is important to try to restore normal menstruation in women with anorexia nervosa.

Calcium and Vitamin D. Patients should take supplements of 1,000 to 1,500 mg of calcium and a multivitamin containing 400 IU of vitamin D.

Like most vitamins, vitamin D may be obtained in the recommended amount with a well-balanced diet, including some enriched or fortified foods. In addition, the body manufactures vitamin D when exposed to sunshine. It is recommended people get 10 to 15 minutes of sunshine 3 times a week. Be sure to always use sunscreen.

Click the icon to see an image of some sources of calcium.

Other Drugs for Restoring Bone Density. Other drugs are useful for bone restoration, including parathyroid hormone and bisphosphonates, although research on these drugs have been conducted primarily on postmenopausal women.

Investigative Drugs. One 2002 study reported that recombinant human IGF-I (rhIGF-I), which is a growth hormone, was effective in restoring bone, particularly in combination with oral contraceptives.

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a weak male hormone that is reduced in anorexia and, like estrogen, has positive effects on bone density. In a 2002 study, patients with anorexia who took DHEA experienced both improved bone density and improved psychological well-being. Long-term effects of taking DHEA are unknown. Possible adverse effects include male characteristics (acne, facial hair), unfavorable effects on cholesterol, and a possible growth-stimulating effect on breast or prostate cancer.