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The eating disorders medicine cabinet revisited: A clinician's guide to appetite suppressants and diuretics
Author(s) -
Roerig James L.,
Mitchell James E.,
de Zwaan Martina,
Wonderlich Stephen A.,
Kamran Shehzad,
Engbloom Sara,
Burgard Melissa,
Lancaster Kathryn
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
international journal of eating disorders
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.785
H-Index - 138
eISSN - 1098-108X
pISSN - 0276-3478
DOI - 10.1002/eat.10159
Subject(s) - pill , bulimia nervosa , medicine , pharmacy , eating disorders , medline , alternative medicine , family medicine , diuretic , population , psychiatry , environmental health , pharmacology , pathology , political science , law
Objective This article explores the frequencies of use of alternative medications, available products, and their potential toxicities. Method Survey data were gathered from 39 consecutive patients diagnosed with bulimia nervosa who were seeking treatment. A survey of area outlets (health food stores, pharmacies, grocery stores) was conducted to establish a database of available agents. Putative active ingredients were identified. MEDLINE literature searches, as well as reviews of specialized texts, were performed to identify the potential toxicities of the ingredients. Results Diet pill use was found in 64% of patients; 18 % reported use in the past month. The survey identified 167 products. Diuretic use was found in 31% of patients; 21% reported use in the past month. Twenty‐five diuretic products were identified. Discussion Alternative medicines are frequently used in the population of patients seeking treatment for bulimia nervosa. An abundance of products are available with potentially significant toxicities. © 2003 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 33: 443–457, 2003.