Binge eating is something that affects millions of American people. People who suffer from binge eating rarely can control their binges and then have feelings of shame and guilt after an episode of binge eating. Is there a new approach or potential for there to be a drug on the market that can help binge eaters? In this article they discuss a study that was conducted by Pietro Cottone, Ph.D., an associate professor of pharmacology and psychiatry at BUSM. In his study he looks at a potentially new drug that can help to control certain brain receptors. These brain receptors help in decision making processes associated with food and addictive, potentially dangerous decisions. The news is promising for those who suffer from binge eating disorder.
Key Points:
- 1In the report, investigators describe the beneficial effects of the activation of a class of receptors, Trace Amine-Associated Receptor 1 (TAAR1), on compulsive, binge eating. TAAR1 discovered in 2001, is a receptor that binds molecules in the brain called trace amines.
- 2Binge eaters often experience a loss of control during the binge as well as shame, distress, or guilt afterwards.
- 3Researchers created an experimental model that developed an addiction-like binge eating behavior to sugary, chocolate-flavored food intake as compared to the controls.
Emerging research suggests the absence of a specific brain receptor may lead to compulsive binge eating.
Read the full article at: https://psychcentral.com/news/2016/10/07/new-pharmacological-approach-for-binge-eating/110848.html
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