Yes, There are Medications That Can Help with Binge Eating, Food Noise and Cravings
Binge Eating Controlled.
If you struggle with binge eating or find yourself caught in a cycle of uncontrollable food cravings, you’re not alone—and more importantly, help is available. While therapy, nutrition support, and lifestyle changes are vital components of recovery, many people don’t realize that there are also FDA-approved medications that can support these efforts by targeting the biological factors that contribute to binge eating disorder (BED).
How Medications Help
Binge eating isn’t just about willpower—it often involves disruptions in brain chemistry, especially in the systems that regulate appetite, reward, and impulse control. Medications can help by reducing the intensity and frequency of cravings, improving mood, and making it easier to pause and make more intentional choices around food.
Medications That May Be Prescribed for BED Include:
Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) – The first and only FDA-approved medication specifically for moderate to severe binge eating disorder in adults. It works by influencing dopamine and norepinephrine pathways, which can help reduce binge episodes.
Topiramate – Originally used for epilepsy and migraines, this medication has shown benefits in reducing binge frequency and promoting weight loss in some people.
Naltrexone/Bupropion (Contrave) – A combination medication that targets both reward pathways and cravings, often used for weight management, and sometimes helpful for those with emotional or compulsive eating behaviors.
SSRIs (like fluoxetine or sertraline) – Though not specifically approved for BED, they can help with co-occurring depression or anxiety, and may reduce bingeing behaviors for some individuals.
It’s Not a One-Size-Fits-All Solution
Medication isn’t a standalone fix—it works best when combined with therapy, mindful eating strategies, and support from healthcare professionals who understand the complexity of binge eating. What works for one person may not work for another, and that’s okay. The goal is to find the right combination of tools that help you feel more in control and at peace with food.
If You’re Struggling, You Deserve Help
Whether your binge eating feels new or like a lifelong battle, know that there are options—and you don’t have to navigate them alone. Talk to a provider who specializes in eating behaviors or mental health. There is no shame in seeking help, and recovery is possible, one step at a time. If you’d like help exploring treatment options for binge eating, feel free to reach out or book a consultation
