What pharmacotherapy is commonly used for night-eating syndrome?

The use of sertraline as pharmacotherapy for night-eating syndrome is supported by its effectiveness in managing mood and anxiety disorders, which are often associated with this condition. Night-eating syndrome is characterized by a pattern of consuming a significant portion of daily calories at night, often linked to insomnia, emotional distress, and disturbances in circadian rhythms.

Sertraline, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is known to enhance serotonin levels in the brain, which can play a role in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep cycles. By improving these areas, sertraline can help reduce the symptoms associated with night-eating syndrome. Furthermore, clinical studies have indicated that SSRIs can be beneficial for treating eating disorders by addressing some of the underlying psychological issues that may contribute to disordered eating patterns.

While other pharmacotherapies, such as fluoxetine, may also have potential benefits, sertraline has emerged as a more commonly prescribed option specifically for this syndrome due to its favorable profile and efficacy in addressing both mood and eating behaviors in affected individuals.