GLP-1 drugs may help binge eating disorder by addressing both weight and potentially the neurobiological underpinnings of compulsive eating, but evidence is still sparse.
Only 1 approved BED drugLisdexamfetamine is the only approved medication for binge eating disorder, and only in some countries
What the researchers found
Anti-obesity drugs, particularly GLP-1 receptor agonists, may have potential for treating binge eating disorder, but current evidence is limited and the psychological components of BED require special attention.
Why it matters
Binge eating disorder is extremely common but has very few approved treatments. If obesity drugs can address both the weight and the eating behavior, it could help millions of people.
The numbers in context
BED is described as the most prevalent form of disordered eating. Only lisdexamfetamine is currently approved for BED, and only in some countries.
How the study worked
Narrative review of existing literature on anti-obesity drugs and their potential role in binge eating disorder treatment.
Who was studied
People with binge eating disorder and/or obesity (review article)
What this study cannot tell us
This is a narrative review, not a systematic review or meta-analysis. Direct evidence for GLP-1 agonists in BED specifically is sparse.
How to read the evidence
Rated preliminary: narrative review exploring a hypothesis with limited direct evidence. No randomized trials of GLP-1 drugs specifically for BED.
When this study was published
Published in 2024. Reflects growing interest in GLP-1 drugs for conditions beyond diabetes and general obesity.
The bigger picture
With only one approved treatment available in limited countries, binge eating disorder is severely undertreated. If obesity drugs could address both weight and eating behavior, millions of people could benefit.
Questions still open
- Do GLP-1 drugs reduce binge eating urges or just overall appetite?
- Should BED-specific clinical trials be designed for GLP-1 drugs?
Common questions
Can Ozempic or Wegovy help binge eating?
What treatments exist for binge eating disorder?
Read the original research
Anti-obesity Drugs for the Treatment of Binge Eating Disorder: Opportunities and Challenges.
Alpha psychiatry, 25(3), 312-322
Citation
Riboldi, Ilaria; Carrà, Giuseppe. (2024). Anti-obesity Drugs for the Treatment of Binge Eating Disorder: Opportunities and Challenges.. Alpha psychiatry, 25(3), 312-322. https://doi.org/10.5152/alphapsychiatry.2024.241464