Anorexia Nervosa and Antipsychotics: How to Apply Research Findings to the Adolescent Population

Abstract

The physical and psychological symptoms of anorexia nervosa (AN) are intertwined, each affecting each other and each a focus of recovery. Although no FDA approved pharmacotherapy exists for AN, the use of second generation antipsychotics (SGAs) in AN treatment has exponentially increased in the past decade (Fazeli et al., 2012). Frequently, clinicians use SGAs in an attempt to capitalize on the side effects of increased appetite and weight gain often seen with this class of medication. Although it is possible that medication might improve treatment outcomes as part of a multidisciplinary approach initiated during nutritional rehabilitation, there is a lack of data to support pharmacotherapies in this patient population. Recent research has attempted to examine whether (SGAs) are effi cacious for weight restoration in AN. However, the results of research studies thus far are inconsistent and randomized trials looking at outcomes beyond weight increase might better demonstrate the benefi ts of using antipsychotic medication. We will discuss options for future trial designs to test the benefi ts of antipsychotic medications as part of a multidimensional treatment plan.