Neurochemical abnormalities of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa
Abstract
The authors review the research on anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, emphasizing the neurotransmitters and neuromodulators that regulate eating behavior. Anorexia nervosa is associated with changes in the noradrenergic, serotonergic, and opioid systems; bulimia nervosa is accompanied by marked alterations in serotonin and norepinephrine activity. These neurochemical changes may perpetuate pathological eating behavior and may be responsible for several associated psychiatric symptoms, including anxiety and depression. The authors also summarize studies of several drugs that are used in the treatment of eating disorders and are known to modify neurotransmitter activity. Understanding the neurochemistry of eating disorders seems crucial for the rational development of both psychopharmacological and behavioral treatments.
Access content
To read the fulltext, please use one of the options below to sign in or purchase access.- Personal login
- Institutional Login
- Sign in via OpenAthens
- Register for access
-
Please login/register if you wish to pair your device and check access availability.
Not a subscriber?
PsychiatryOnline subscription options offer access to the DSM-5 library, books, journals, CME, and patient resources. This all-in-one virtual library provides psychiatrists and mental health professionals with key resources for diagnosis, treatment, research, and professional development.
Need more help? PsychiatryOnline Customer Service may be reached by emailing [email protected] or by calling 800-368-5777 (in the U.S.) or 703-907-7322 (outside the U.S.).