SEROTONIN AND BULIMIA-NERVOSA

Serotonin (5HT) is one of several neuromodulators of feeding. Experime ntally reducing 5HT activity in animals increases food intake, while i ncreasing 5HT activity has the opposite effect. Studies suggest that w omen with bulimia nervosa show signs of reduced 5HT activity which may be related to binge eating. Data supporting the theory that reduced c entral nervous system 5HT activity may play a role in the pathophysiol ogy of bulimia nervosa is reviewed. Disturbances of 5HT activity and t he relationship to other psychopathology in bulimia nervosa, such as d epression, substance abuse, and impulsivity, are also reviewed.