3.4 When Nutrition and Therapy Aren't Enough: Use of Psychotropic Medications in the Treatment of Eating Disorders

Objectives: Eating disorders are challenging to treat. Evidence-based interventions are psychosocial, but psychotropic medications are used in many cases. Participants in this Institute will learn about the following: 1) the medications with the FDA indications for treatment of eating disorders in children, adolescents, and young adults; 2) the data available to date on the use of psychotropic medications in this population (including antidepressants, atypical antipsychotic drugs, and mood stabilizers); 3) comorbid conditions that may warrant the use of psychotropic medications (mood, anxiety, etc.); and 4) practical guidelines for choosing medications, dosing, and monitoring potential adverse effects, with a special focus on medical complications that are unique to this patient population. Methods: The presenter will use PowerPoint to share didactic information on the evidence available thus far to support psychotropic medication use in anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and avoidant/ restrictive food intake disorder. Questions from the audience and discussion will be encouraged. Results: Attendees will be more knowledgeable about the utility of using medications in this challenging population and will have practical tools at their disposal for initiating and/or maintaining psychotropic drugs when they are likely to be effective. Further, they will be well versed in potential adverse effects and the need for laboratory and cardiac monitoring in patients suffering from the effects of malnutrition. Conclusions: CAPs may be asked to see patients with eating disorders, so it is imperative that they understand the needs and unique vulnerabilities of this challenging and medically compromised population.