Medical Treatment

Treatment often can be extremely challenging because someone with anorexia will not cooperate or resists participation in any treatment program. A coordinated team of specialists is needed to handle all the medical and psychological components of this illness.

• Initially, treatment must focus on stabilizing any life-threatening complications of starvation. In severe cases, the medical team will assist in regaining weight, possibly using nutrition replacement through an IV.

• The team must educate the person about the disease and its medical complications, as well as teach proper nutritional requirements.

• Psychiatric treatment uses cognitive, behavioral, and psychotherapeutic methods within a comprehensive treatment plan.

• Sometimes doctors will use medications, but such programs lack proof that they work.

• Family and support networks should be actively involved in treatment.