Binge eating disorder is one such typical condition that usually doesn’t respond to drugs alone. The treatment for this condition has to be a combination of certain therapies (psychological) and physical treatments along with medications. However, as the condition has become prevalent now, research is on to find out new and effective medications and drugs for treating the condition effectively and efficiently. Some drugs have also reportedly shown promising results in treating binge eating disorder, while some others have failed to provide permanent solutions to the condition.

Some of the commonly used drugs for treating binge eating disorder are noted below:

Anticonvulsants

This particular group of drugs was meant for treating seizures caused due to epilepsy. Topamax (Topiramate) is the drug used as an anticonvulsant. During the clinical trials of this drug, it was found that weight loss was a commonly noted side effect.  Further researches revealed that Topamax can not only treat binge eating disorders and body weight related issues, but it can as well treat obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Topamax is given along with some other drugs in adjunction for effective treatment of OCD and other such psychiatric conditions.

Although effective, there are some major side effects of the drug that cannot be overlooked. It can cause double vision. Blurred vision, unsteadiness or clumsiness, drowsiness, dizziness and other such health complications are often noticed in people taking these medications.

SSRI Medications

SSRIs are basically selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. These drugs have shown promising results in treating binge eating disorder. These are generally known to be antidepressants, but can as well help in improving the body mass index, body weight and the occurrence of binge eating disorder. Some of the commonly known anti-depressants are –

4 Paxil (Paroxetine)
4 Luxov (Fluvoxamine)
4 Zoloft (Setraline)
4 Prozac (Fluxetine)
4 Celexa (Citalopram)

But these SSRIs cannot hold the body weight after the treatment comes to an end and that’s the reason why these drugs are not recommended for weight loss or weight control. Also, researchers are still confused abut the efficacy of the drugs and how these bring about such effects.
Appetite Suppressants

Meridian (Sibutramine) is one of the appetite suppressants that can reduce the frequency of binge eating disorders. This drug has been known to be a serotonin and neropinephrine reuptake inhibitors or SNRIs. The drug has been approved by the FDA as a treatment for obesity as well.  It can suppress hunger considerably and can therefore aid in weight loss.

Tricyclic Antidepressants

Norpramin (Desipramine) is an antidepressant that can help in reducing the episodes of binge eating and hunger. It also aids in making the behavioral weight loss treatments even effective. But there aren’t any proper evidences to prove the efficacy of this drug or similar other drugs used for treating binge eating disorder.

It is being presumed that drugs and medications can reduce the frequency of the episodes of binge eating disorders. But these dugs cannot solely treat the condition. Some alternative treatments, such as therapies and psychological treatment methods would be needed.  Additionally, there have been no proper data or evidence to support the efficacy and usefulness of these drugs for treating binge eating disorder. Instead of trying out anything on your own, seek your doctor’s help as and when required.