First Drug for Binge-Eating Disorder Approved

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate; Shire) for the treatment of binge-eating disorder in adults. Vyvanse, a CNS stimulant, is the first approved treatment for this condition.

Binge eating disorder is defined as recurring episodes (more than once weekly, for at least three months) of consuming a large amount of food in a short time, compared with others. It is the most common eating disorder in the United States, affecting an estimated 2.8 million adults, according to a national survey.

The efficacy of Vyvanse was demonstrated in two clinical studies (n=724) that evaluated adults with moderate-to-severe binge-eating disorder. Adults treated with Vyvanse experienced a decrease in the number of binge eating days per week and a decrease in obsessive-compulsive binge eating behaviors vs. adults taking placebo. Patients with current anorexia or bulimia nervosa; current comorbid psychiatric disorder; and cardiovascular risk factors other than obesity and smoking were excluded from the studies.

Vyvanse, a Schedule II substance, was approved in 2007 for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in patients ages ≥6. It is not approved or recommended for weight loss.

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