Oxytocin and Anorexia Nervosa: A Review of the Emerging Literature. (23rd September 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Maguire, Sarah; O'Dell, Adrienne; Touyz, Lauren; Russell, Janice
• Other Names: Schmidt Ulrike guestEditor.
• Is Part Of: European eating disorders review. Volume 21:Number 6(2013:Nov.)
• Page Start: 475
• Page End: 478
• Publication Date: 2013-09-23
• Subjects: oxytocin -- anorexia nervosa -- eating disorders -- treatment -- neuropeptide; Eating disorders -- Periodicals; 616.8526
• DOI: 10.1002/erv.2252
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1072-4133

Abstract

Abstract: Anorexia nervosa (AN) is an intractable illness that is difficult to treat. The identification of neural correlates and novel agents to transform treatment has become priority avenues for research. Oxytocin (OT) is a neuropeptide whose emerging sphere of influence on mammalian behaviour and demonstrated impact on psychiatric illness suggest it may have potential in AN. In this paper, we undertake a targeted summary of the existing literature on OT research as it pertains to brain based behaviour and psychiatric dysfunction. Then, we conduct a systematic review of OT in AN. Papers that addressed any aspect of the OT system in AN were examined. The existing literature, although limited and based on small sample sizes, suggests a derangement of the OT system in AN that may normalise upon recovery. Preliminary pilot data from unpublished studies suggest a potential effect of OT administration on eating‐related indices. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.