Medications for binge eating disorder, such as lisdexamfetamine, fluoxetine, and sertraline, may be prescribed by a psychiatrist or a healthcare provider who specializes in eating disorders. These medications can help reduce appetite and food intake, lowering the frequency of binge eating episodes.
They are typically recommended for people with moderate to severe binge eating disorder as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes talk therapy and nutritional counseling. They may also be prescribed when other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, are present.
Medications for binge eating should only be used under medical supervision, with individualized doses and treatment duration. It’s also important to continue therapy, exercise regularly, and maintain a balanced diet to support recovery.
Prescription medications
Prescription medications that may be recommended for binge eating disorder include:
1. Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is the only medication officially approved by the FDA for the treatment of binge eating disorder in adults. It acts directly on the central nervous system to help decrease appetite and reduce the number of binge eating episodes.
This medication should only be used under medical guidance, as it can cause serious side effects such as agitation, hallucinations, paranoia, muscle stiffness or spasms, lack of coordination, and rapid heartbeat. It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for people with heart disease, hyperthyroidism, or glaucoma.
Lisdexamfetamine is available by prescription under the brand name Vyvanse. The dosage and length of treatment must be individualized and determined by a healthcare provider.
2. Antidepressants
Antidepressants are usually prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, or other psychological conditions, but they can also help reduce binge eating behaviors and improve related mental health symptoms.
The most commonly prescribed antidepressants for binge eating are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine and sertraline. These medications increase serotonin levels in the brain, which helps improve mood, reduce cravings for sweets, and promote satiety.
Common side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, headache, insomnia, drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, or sexual dysfunction. Antidepressants should only be taken under medical supervision.
Also recommended: How to Increase Serotonin: 9 Natural Methods tuasaude.com/en/how-to-increase-serotonin3. Anticonvulsants
Anticonvulsants, which are normally used to treat epilepsy or seizures, may also be prescribed to help reduce binge eating by controlling excessive appetite.
The main anticonvulsant used for binge eating is topiramate, which works in the brain to stabilize mood and decrease overactivity of nerve cells.
Topiramate should be taken only under medical supervision. It is not recommended during pregnancy or for individuals who are allergic to any of its components.
Natural remedies
Some natural remedies may help reduce appetite and support treatment for binge eating, including:
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Chia seeds: add about 25 g to meals;
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Turmeric (curcumin): take 90 mg in capsule form twice a day;
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Psyllium husk: take 20 g about 3 hours before lunch and dinner, and again immediately afterward.
These natural remedies may take 1 to 2 months of consistent use to produce noticeable effects. However, they are generally well tolerated and can be a helpful complement to prescribed medications and therapy.
Caralluma fimbriata
Caralluma fimbriata is a cactus extract sometimes used as an appetite suppressant. Some studies suggest it may help reduce food cravings, however it is not currently FDA-approved for the treatment of binge eating disorder or for weight loss.
It is available in supplement form and should always be discussed with a healthcare provider before taking.