Which medication may lead to a modest weight gain when used to treat anorexia nervosa?

Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic that is often used to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders, including anorexia nervosa. Its therapeutic action includes modifying neurotransmitter activity, particularly serotonin and dopamine, which can help improve mood and stabilize appetite in individuals suffering from eating disorders. One of the known side effects of olanzapine is weight gain, which is significant in the context of treating anorexia nervosa. This weight gain can be beneficial for patients with this condition, as it helps to address the underlying issue of weight loss due to restrictive eating behaviors.

The use of other medications in the choices does not typically correlate with weight gain in the same way. For instance, bupropion is generally associated with weight loss and is contraindicated in patients with eating disorders due to the risk of seizure. Fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is approved for bulimia nervosa but is not primarily associated with weight gain and can actually lead to weight changes in the opposite direction for some individuals. Lisdexamfetamine, a stimulant used to treat ADHD, can suppress appetite and is not indicated for weight gain.

Thus, olanzapine’s effect on increasing weight makes it the medication of choice