What is the contraindicated antidepressant for patients with eating disorders?

Disable ads (and more) with a premium pass for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the HOSA Behavioral Health Assessment Test. Engage with flashcards, multiple-choice questions, and detailed explanations to excel in your exam. Get set for your certification journey!

Bupropion is contraindicated for patients with eating disorders primarily due to its association with an increased risk of seizures. Individuals with eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa may already have electrolyte imbalances and other metabolic disturbances that heighten seizure risk. Bupropion can lower the seizure threshold, making it particularly risky for this population.

In contrast, other antidepressants like fluoxetine, desvenlafaxine, and citalopram are commonly used in treating patients with eating disorders and are generally considered safer, as they do not carry the same significant risk of seizures. Fluoxetine, for example, has been FDA-approved for the treatment of bulimia nervosa and is often first-line therapy due to its efficacy in managing symptoms associated with eating disorders. Desvenlafaxine and citalopram are also SSRIs or SNRIs that do not share the seizure risk profile associated with bupropion, making them more suitable options for individuals struggling with these conditions.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy