Approved and Pipeline Pharmacological Interventions for Eating Disorders (2010–2025): 15 Years of Progress (or Lack Thereof)

Eating disorders are complex psychiatric conditions with limited pharmacological treatment options. A review of clinical drug trials from 2010 to 2025 found 43 eligible phase I-IV trials for anorexia nervosa, binge eating disorder, bulimia nervosa, and rumination disorder. Among 24 distinct compounds studied, only lisdexamfetamine dimesylate received FDA approval for an eating disorder during this period. Few agents have shown positive results in late-stage trials, though solriamfetol and psilocybin show promise. There remains a significant lack of evidence-based pharmacological interventions for anorexia nervosa and little progress for bulimia nervosa, highlighting an urgent need for more rigorous clinical trials.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Eating disorders (EDs) are complex psychiatric conditions characterized by disruptions in eating behaviors, body image concerns, and profound medical and psychosocial consequences. Despite their significant global prevalence, coupled with high morbidity and mortality rates, pharmacological treatment options remain limited. This review synthesizes evidence from clinical drug trials conducted between 1 January 2010 and 1 January 2025, supplemented with relevant literature, to evaluate the current and emerging pharmacological landscape for EDs. A systematic search of the U.S. Clinical Trials Registry (ClinicalTrials.gov) identified 43 eligible phase I-IV clinical trials for the treatment of anorexia nervosa (n = 12), binge eating disorder (n = 27), bulimia nervosa (n = 2), and rumination disorder (n = 2). Among 24 distinct compounds studied, only 1 agent, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for an ED during this period. Notably, few agents have demonstrated positive results in late-stage trials and remain in development for EDs as of 2025. While some emerging agents show promise, such as solriamfetol and psilocybin, there remains a significant lack of evidence-based pharmacological interventions for anorexia nervosa and a dearth of progress in pharmacotherapy for bulimia nervosa. Overall, the past 15 years have witnessed limited advancements in pharmacotherapy for EDs. There remains an urgent need for rigorous clinical trials in this area in addition to increased prioritization of ED research at the public health level to overcome longstanding barriers in the treatment of EDs.