Anorexia Medications

Medications Used in Treating Anorexia





By Anne Ahira

While there is no preventative medication or specific medications for eating disorders, there are certain medications that are used in treating anorexia. There have been many clinical trials and cases studies that have determined that individuals that suffer from this eating disorder also suffer from altered amounts of levels of chemical substances in the brain that are commonly referred to as neurotransmitters.

One of the most affected neurotransmitters is known as serotonin. Due to the fact that there seems to be a physiological basis for the onset of anorexia nervosa, it makes sense that medications used to correct these physiological issues may also be used to treat this particular eating disorder.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors or SSRIs

There is a classification of psychiatric based medications that are referred to as "Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors" or "SSRIs" that many medical doctors and medical doctors are now starting to prescribe to those patients that suffer from anorexia. These medications work by actually increasing the amount of serotonin that is physically present in the brain.

These medications are most commonly associated with depression as they are believed to resolve this condition in numerous patients. However, they are also used to treat conditions such as anxiety, those that suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other conditions such as phobias.

Nutritional Supplements and Vitamins

Nutritional supplements and vitamins are also considered to be effective treatments for the eating disorder anorexia. Most individuals suffering from this condition have either been quite restrictive in their eating habits, or they have avoided eating altogether. In both cases, malnutrition is one of the largest concerns.

This is why many medical doctors will advise indulging in supplements, multivitamins, and products that are considered to be multiminerals. While these supplements will not completely cure the condition, they will assist in allowing the body the nutrients that are required to reach an optimal state of health.


 

Related Guides: