Currently, there are no medical treatments specifically for orthorexia nervosa because research is still in the stage of clearly defining the condition. However, given the overlap in symptoms with anorexia nervosa and obsessive-compulsive disorder, some clinicians may take similar treatment approaches. The goal of treatment is to increase the variety of foods eaten, including foods that were previously feared, address disordered thoughts around food, and restore nutritional and weight status if needed. This treatment process might involve individual or group cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, professional nutrition counseling, and medications (e.g., antidepressants, mood stabilizers).[1]
What are some of the main medical treatments for orthorexia nervosa?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
There are currently no specific medical treatments for orthorexia nervosa because the condition is still being defined; however, treatment may involve approaches similar to those for anorexia nervosa and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The focus is on increasing food variety, addressing disordered thoughts about food, and restoring nutritional status, potentially via cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, nutrition counseling, and medications.