Medicines such as antidepressants may reduce the frequency of the binge-purge episodes of bulimia. They may also be used to treat other mental health problems, such as depression, that often occur along with bulimia. And you may need antacids to decrease stomach acid or bulk laxatives such as Citrucel to replace the overuse of more harsh laxatives.

Medication Choices

Antidepressant medicines are used to reduce the frequency of binge-purge cycles and treat any related depression or anxiety.

What To Think About

Sometimes several antidepressant medicines are tried before finding the one that works best. Treatment with medicines is more effective when combined with psychological counseling, which includes nutritional counseling.⁹

FDA Advisory. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an advisory to patients, families, and health professionals to closely monitor children and adults 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 medicines and, if concerns arise, to contact a health professional.

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