Pharmacologic treatment of binge eating disorder

Objective To review the findings from pharmacologic trials of binge eating disorder (BED) and to provide guidelines for pharmacologic treatment. Methods The literature was searched for studies of pharmacologic treatment of BED and related conditions, such as nonpurging bulimia nervosa. Results Placebo‐controlled studies of desipramine, fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, sertraline, citalopram, dexfenfluramine, sibutramine, and topiramate have demonstrated the efficacy of these agents in the treatment of BED. An open trial of venlafaxine has offered preliminary evidence for the efficacy of this medication. Guidelines for pharmacologic management of BED are provided. Conclusions The literature offers support for the use of agents from three categories of medication (antidepressants, appetite suppressants, and anticonvulsants) in the treatment of BED. © 2003 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 34: S74–S88, 2003.