Pimozide combined with behavior therapy in the short-term treatment of anorexia nervosa. A double-blind placebo-controlled cross-over study

Acta Psychiatr Scand. 1982 Dec;66(6):445-50. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0447.1982.tb04501.x.

Abstract

Eighteen female inpatients were included in a double-blind placebo-controlled cross-over study aimed at testing the hypothesis that dopamine blockade may enhance the effectiveness of behavior therapy in the short-term weight restoration of anorexia nervosa patients. The patients were given a uniform contingency management program and, after a baseline period, they alternatingly (3-week periods) received pimozide (4 to 6 mg) or a placebo. During the first two periods pimozide almost significantly enhanced the weight gain induced by the behavior therapy program and beneficially influenced the patients' attitude towards treatment.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Anorexia Nervosa / psychology
  • Anorexia Nervosa / therapy*
  • Behavior Therapy / methods*
  • Body Weight / drug effects
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pimozide / therapeutic use*
  • Random Allocation

Substances

  • Pimozide