Rutgers Health researchers have reported mixed results for a common stimulant used in treating binge eating disorder. The study, led by Abanoub Armanious from Rutgers School of Public Health, highlights the complexities surrounding lisdexamfetamine, marketed as Vyvanse. Initially approved for ADHD, its use has expanded due to its efficacy in reducing binge episodes.
“Binge eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in the United States,” said Armanious. Despite its prevalence across various racial and ethnic groups, no specific drug has been developed for this condition.
Morgan James, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Rutgers and senior author of the study, explained that lisdexamfetamine is currently the only FDA-approved medication for moderate to severe cases in adults. “Its ability to also reduce the frequency of binge eating episodes led to its approval for binge eating disorder,” James stated.
Published in Psychiatry Research Communications, the study delves into patient experiences with lisdexamfetamine. While some patients noted fewer binge episodes and better appetite control, others reported significant side effects and inconsistent effectiveness.
The research included a thematic analysis of 111 anonymous reviews from self-identified patients on Drugs.com. It examined how personal perceptions influenced evaluations of lisdexamfetamine’s efficacy. Armanious noted that improved focus and fewer side effects correlated with higher efficacy ratings. Conversely, concerns about diminishing therapeutic effects were linked to lower ratings.
Challenges identified include the drug’s waning appetite-suppressing effects by evening, leading to increased nighttime binge risk. Patients often experienced fatigue or irritability as the medication wore off. Some adjusted their dosage timing but faced insomnia as a result.
Armanious emphasized the importance of understanding these nuances: “The need for targeted treatment options for binge eating disorder remains a significant unmet challenge.” Efforts continue at James Laboratory to develop medications with better side effect profiles.
