Olanzapine treatment of anorexia nervosa: a retrospective study

Int J Eat Disord. 2003 Mar;33(2):234-7. doi: 10.1002/eat.10122.

Abstract

Background: Recent reports raise the possibility that olanzapine, which commonly causes weight gain in non-eating-disordered subjects, assisted weight gain and mood during refeeding in anorexia nervosa (AN) patients.

Methods: Eighteen AN subjects who engaged in open treatment with olanzapine were retrospectively questioned about their response.

Results: Subjects reported a significant reduction in anxiety, difficulty eating, and core eating disorder symptoms after taking olanzapine.

Discussion: These data lend support to the possibility that olanzapine may be useful in AN patients.

Conclusion: A controlled trial is necessary to prove that olanzapine is efficacious.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Anorexia Nervosa / diagnosis
  • Anorexia Nervosa / drug therapy*
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Humans
  • Olanzapine
  • Pirenzepine / analogs & derivatives*
  • Pirenzepine / therapeutic use*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Substances

  • Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Pirenzepine
  • Olanzapine