Mood stabilizers in eating disorders: A systematic review.
The present study aimed to systematically review the use of Mood Stabilizers (MS) in Eating Disorders (ED), focusing on the efficacy and safety of these medications, regardless of possible bipolar comorbidity. Following a preregistered protocol (PROSPERO code: CRD42024610525), three databases were searched until October 29, 2024, to identify empirical studies reporting the use of MS in patients with any diagnosis of ED. Study quality was assessed using the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice rating scale. Thirty-three studies met the eligibility criteria. Topiramate, used alone or with Phentermine, showed promise for treating abnormal eating behaviors in Binge Eating Disorder (BED) and Bulimia Nervosa (BN), although its side effects, such as fatigue and cognitive impairment, limit its use. Other anticonvulsants (e.g. Zonisamide, Lamotrigine and Carbamazepine) showed mixed findings. Lithium has demonstrated effective in reducing bulimic episodes in BED/BN patients with comorbid depression, though its overall efficacy remains unclear due to limited evidence. In Anorexia Nervosa, Lithium and other mood stabilizers showed mixed evidence of efficacy, with the former promoting significant improvements in weight gain but with some degree of uncertainty. Topiramate reduced nocturnal eating episodes in Sleep-Related Eating Disorder, but side effects remain a concern. This review emphasizes the complexity of treating ED with MS, highlighting the need for personalized treatments considering both short- and long-term therapeutic effects as well as potential adverse outcomes.