What to know about antidepressants and binge eating disorder

Is there a link between depression and BED?

People with eating disorders have a higher riskTrusted Source of suicide and health complications than people who do not have this kind of condition.

BED often occursTrusted Source with other mental health conditions and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

A 2022 survey-based studyTrusted Source suggests that the common mental health conditions in adults with BED include depression and anxiety disorders.

Researchers also found a strong link between BED and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Additionally, for people with BED, depression can lead to episodes of binge eating, which can worsen depression symptoms. The reverse is also true.

Can antidepressants help with BED?

Doctors may prescribe antidepressants as part of a treatment plan for BED, especially if a person has depression or an anxiety disorder.

How they work

Antidepressants increase levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These are chemical messengers in the body that affect a person’s appetite, mood, and impulse control.

People with BED may have lower-than-typical levels of these brain chemicals, which can contribute to binge eating.

Antidepressants can help improve mood and reduce binge eating episodes in people with BED.

With other forms of treatment

It is important to note that antidepressants alone cannot cure BED. They may work best in conjunction with other treatments, such as psychotherapy.

One 2022 reviewTrusted Source found that antidepressants and stimulants were more effective than a placebo for BED.

However, the same review suggests combining psychotherapy and lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) was the most effective BED treatment.

Side effects and risks

Most antidepressant-related side effects are mild and go away within a few weeks of starting the medication.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Potential side effects of SSRIs include:

• anxiety
• nausea
• dizziness
• blurred vision
• decreased libido
• difficulty achieving orgasm
• erectile dysfunction

Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)

Potential side effects of SNRIs include:

• loss of appetite
• nausea and vomiting
• difficulty sleeping
• dizziness
• fatigue
• low libido
• headache
• constipation
• diarrhea
• high blood pressure
• difficulty achieving orgasm
• erectile dysfunction

Risks

There are also certain risks involved in taking antidepressants, such as:

• Dependency: Antidepressants can cause physical dependence. People who stop taking them suddenly may experience withdrawal symptoms such as headache, nausea, and diarrhea.
• Interactions with other medications: Antidepressants can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter herbal supplements such as St. John’s Wort.
• An increased risk of suicide: Some antidepressants may increase the riskTrusted Source of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and young adults, especially when they first start taking the medication. Healthcare professionals need to monitor people closely when they start taking antidepressants.

It is important that people considering taking an antidepressant consult a healthcare professional to discuss the risks and benefits of these medications. A doctor can help develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Other treatment options

Other treatment options for BED include:

• Psychotherapy: This is the first-line treatment option for BED. CommonTrusted Source approaches include:
  • cognitive behavioral therapy
  • dialectical behavior therapy
  • interpersonal therapy
• Pharmacotherapy: In addition to antidepressants, doctors may prescribe other medications to help manage BED, such as antiepileptic drugs, ADHD medications (stimulants), and medications that help regulate appetite.
• Self-help strategies: This can include keeping a food diary, learning coping skills to help manage stress and emotional triggers, practicing mindful eating, and engaging in regular physical activity.

When to speak with a doctor

It is best for people with BED to talk with a healthcare professional about the potential risks and benefits of antidepressants and other treatments.

Summary

Antidepressants may help with symptoms of binge eating disorder (BED). However, they cannot cure the condition.

It is important for people to be aware of the potential risks and side effects before starting to take antidepressants for BED. A doctor can help determine if antidepressants are right for a person’s needs or if other treatments would be more suitable.