Binge eating is a disordered eating pattern characterized by ingesting excessive amounts of food in an uncontrolled manner, usually within a short period of time and in private, and feeling guilty and distressed afterward. When it occurs regularly, it is referred to as binge eating disorder. When it is followed by self-induced vomiting, diuretic or laxative abuse, or extreme dieting and exercise to compensate for the excessive food, it is referred to as bulimia nervosa. Binge eating is extremely upsetting to sufferers, who may become overweight or obese. However, binge eating can be treated, sometimes with medication.
Seeking Help
Step 1
Schedule an appointment with your physician, a clinical psychologist or a psychiatrist. These experts are professionally trained to evaluate your symptoms and consider your treatment options. Ideally, the professional you consult should have experience helping patients with eating disorders.
Step 2
Be honest with your health care provider during your clinic visit. While it can be embarrassing or difficult for many patients to discuss binge eating, it is important that you fully describe your eating problem so the proper treatment can be recommended.
Step 3
Ask for a referral to a mental health professional or other clinician specializing in eating problems if your provider is not experienced in this area. Your physician can provide an appropriate recommendation for further consultation with an eating disorders expert as needed.
Step 4
Request information about and evaluation for medication treatment. The MayoClinic.com notes that certain antidepressants, seizure medications, and appetite suppressants have been used to treat binge eating. While some mental health professionals, such as psychologists and clinical social workers, are not licensed to prescribe medications, they can assess your symptoms and direct you to a psychiatrist, who will handle prescriptions as needed. Other non-psychiatric physicians are also able to prescribe medications, though they may not specialize in the types of medications used to treat binge eating.
Tips and Warnings
- Psychotherapy for eating disorders is generally recommended as an accompaniment to medication treatment, states the American Psychological Association. Consider talk therapy such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy along with medication if you are seeking help for binge eating.
- In rare cases some medications, such as particular antidepressants, can cause or exacerbate a distressed mood in some patients and lead to worsening depression or even suicidal thoughts. Consult your physician or psychotherapist immediately if you experience any worsening of your mood or eating disorder symptoms during medication treatment. All medications have side effects, contraindications, and potentially hazardous outcomes if not taken properly. Always follow your physician's orders about your prescribed medication.
