Safety of ephedra and related anorexic medications.
BACKGROUND
The increasing incidence of obesity, anorexia and bulimia has resulted in an increased interest in anorexic medications that can modify human eating behaviors. History and medical research is replete with consequences of addressing behavioral disorders with pharmacologic approaches to intervention in the absence of cognitive therapies such as self-efficacy counseling, which we and others have shown to be extremely effective at modifying behaviors previously thought to be resistant to such treatment. This paper looks at some of the ramifications of using anorexic medications, including ephedra, in modern society's efforts to address weight-related health problems.


METHODS
A review of the medical literature about ephedra and related anorexic medications was undertaken as they are linked to eating disorders. The findings included limited evidence of clinical benefit from such medications with concerns over side effects such as cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, CNS and other potential problems. We provide information about current recommendations for using these medications along with concerns for their use.


CONCLUSIONS
This paper is a review of ephedra and similar anorexic medications and nonprescription substances used in the treatment of obesity and other eating disorders along with some of the potential and proven consequences of such treatment.
Fleming
Richard M
RM
Veterans Affairs Central Iowa Healthcare System, Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, 3600 30th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50310, USA. rmfmd7@hotmail.com
D000818:Animals; D001067:Appetite Depressants / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods; D029789:Ephedra / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005247:Feeding Behavior / Q000187:drug effects; D001068:Feeding and Eating Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D009765:Obesity / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy; D015431:Weight Loss / Q000187:drug effects
D001067:Appetite Depressants