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Antidepressants (such as fluoxetine) may be used if the person with anorexia also has depression or another anxiety disorder, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Initial studies indicate that the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) fluoxetine (for example, Prozac) may help reduce relapses of anorexia.

People with anorexia who are taking medications for other conditions need to be monitored closely and seen regularly by a health professional. They usually need to have their heart rate, temperature, and blood pressure checked. They also need to have blood tests to check the amount of medication in their blood, since being malnourished or severely underweight can change the effectiveness of medications.

FDA Advisory. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an advisory to patients, families, and health care providers to closely monitor adults and children taking antidepressants for signs of suicide. This is especially important at the beginning of treatment or when doses are changed.

The FDA also advises that patients be observed for increases in anxiety, panic attacks, agitation, irritability, insomnia, impulsivity, hostility, and mania. It is most important to watch for these behaviors in children who may be less able to control their impulsivity as much as adults and therefore may be at greater risk for suicidal impulses. The FDA has not recommended that people stop using antidepressants, but simply to monitor those taking the medications and, if concerns arise, to contact a health professional.

next: Therapies for Treating Anorexia

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Reviewed: 03/2006