The effect of dronabinol in a male patient with anorexia nervosa suffering from severe acute urge to be physically active.

OBJECTIVE

A 27-year-old male suffering from chronic anorexia nervosa was admitted for inpatient psychotherapy suffering from severe urge to be physically active.

METHODS

An off-label treatment with dronabinol was initiated, to reduce his symptoms related to that urge. Several attempts to reduce symptoms including intensive psychotherapy and several psychopharmacological agents had failed in the past.

RESULTS

Following treatment with 7.5 mg dronabinol twice a day, the patient reported a significant reduction in his acute urge to be physically active. Also eating disorder-specific cognitions and compulsive behaviors remitted.

DISCUSSION: Previous studies have applied much lower doses and showed no effect of dronabinol upon the urge to be physically active. Up to date, the patient reported no side effects, especially no psychotropic effects. Implications of this case report are discussed.