Psychologist Tom Hildebrandt has noted an increase in patients with eating disorders developing symptoms similar to anorexia nervosa after taking weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound, which belong to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 drugs. These medications mimic a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and hunger, leading to significant weight loss in clinical trials. However, some individuals may interpret this dramatic weight loss as starvation, which can trigger obsessive and restrictive eating behavior. Doctors are concerned that these drugs may be triggering or worsening eating disorders in some people, even when taken as prescribed.
In addition to GLP-1 drugs, there is historical evidence of the misuse of other weight loss medications among individuals with eating disorders. However, experts have noted a particularly concerning trend with the abuse of GLP-1 drugs compared to other weight loss medications currently on the market. Some patients may develop eating disorders even when taking these drugs as prescribed, highlighting the need for increased awareness and monitoring.
While some doctors have reported positive outcomes for patients with binge eating disorder who have taken GLP-1 drugs, others are cautious about the potential risks, especially when combined with restrictive eating behaviors. There is a call for increased screening for eating disorders before prescribing these medications and a need for ongoing monitoring of patients’ mental health. Concerns have also been raised about the lack of warning regarding the risk of eating disorders associated with these medications, particularly in telehealth settings. Overall, there is a need for more research and awareness surrounding the potential impact of weight loss drugs on individuals with eating disorders.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com