Source
Peter Beumont Eating Disorder Service, Ashfield, NSW, Australia. naresh.mondraty@wesleymission.org.au
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
Recovery from anorexia nervosa is confounded by intrusive anorectic cognitions and rituals. It has been observed that olanzapine, an atypical antipsychotic, can reduce this anorexic rumination. A pilot study was designed to test the effectiveness of olanzapine in this role.
METHODS:
A randomized trial of olanzapine versus chlorpromazine, with anorexic rumination as the primary outcome, was conducted. Of the 26 patients who presented, 15 were randomized in a balanced block design, eight to olanzapine and seven to chlorpromazine.
RESULTS:
Only the olanzapine group had a significant reduction in the degree of rumination.
CONCLUSION:
Olanzapine may be of benefit in anorexia nervosa by causing a reduction in anorexic rumination.