Management of anorexia nervosa with exercise and selective serotonergic reuptake inhibitors

Treatment of patients with anorexia nervosa is a topic that continues to spark debate. Two particular areas of controversy include the role of exercise and the use of selective serotonergic reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). Few randomized controlled trials have addressed these two issues. The psychological impact of exercise in patients with anorexia nervosa is complex, and exercise may have a negative impact on bone health. No data support the use of selective serotonergic reuptake inhibitors for weight recovery, but a role may exist for their use in prevention of relapse. More research is needed to define more clearly the role of both exercise and selective serotonergic reuptake inhibitors in the treatment of patients with anorexia nervosa.