THE ROLE OF PHARMACOTHERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF EATING DISORDERS: EFFECTS, LIMITATIONS, AND INTERDISCIPLINARY PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

Eating disorders are complex psychiatric disorders that affect physical, emotional, and social health. This review aimed to analyze the impact of medication use in the treatment of these disorders, considering their therapeutic efficacy, adverse effects, and integration with non-pharmacological therapies. This is an integrative literature review, conducted in the SciELO, BIREME, MEDLINE, and LILACS databases, encompassing publications between 2019 and 2024. The results indicate that antidepressants, anxiolytics, and mood stabilizers can help control symptoms, especially when there are psychiatric comorbidities. However, pharmacotherapy should be used in an adjuvant manner, integrated with psychotherapeutic and nutritional support. It is concluded that the rational use of medications, combined with an interdisciplinary and humanized approach, is essential for therapeutic success and the biopsychosocial well-being of patients.