Anorexia Nervosa Treatments

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to get you back to a healthy weight and keep you there. A healthy weight is above 85% of your ideal weight. To achieve this, your intake of calories is gradually increased. This can be accomplished through a number of interventions, including the following:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Therapists help you develop a healthier and more realistic self-image. The therapist will help you find new ways to think about your body and your diet.

Interpersonal Therapy

Therapy can help you understand and cope with concerns about your relationships.

Family Therapy

Families often play a role in eating disorders. Many patients cannot recover unless their families are involved in the changes. All families need to understand the disorder and provide support.

Antidepressants

In some cases, anorexic patients benefit from a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressant medication. In particular, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (such as sertraline [ Zoloft ] or fluoxetine [ Prozac ]) are used. Used alone, antidepressant therapy is not an effective treatment for anorexia.

Addressing Nutritional Status and Loss of Bone Density

Medications and supplements may include:

Vitamins and minerals to maintain adequate nutrition
Hormone replacement to resume menstruation and prevent bone loss

Hospitalization

Hospitalization may be necessary if:

Weight is 25%-30% below ideal body weight
There are signs of serious physical or emotional deterioration

If you are diagnosed with anorexia, follow your doctor's instructions .

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2023 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.