Treatment and outcome of anorexia nervosa.

Five years ago one of us (W. S.) developed a new method of treatment of anorexia nervosa with large doses of chlor- promazine combined with a modified insulin regimen, and we issued preliminary reports on it (Dally and Sargant, 1960). This combined treatment appeared to be much more effective in rapidly regaining lost weight than any other treatment previously described and was easy to carry out. We have now treated over 50 patients with anorexia nervosa by this method, and they have all regained weight quickly and satisfactorily (Table But although regaining lost weight is an essential step in a patient's recovery this does not necessarily bring the trouble to an end. It may do so in some. But it is important to understand that several years' supportive treatment may be required after restoration of weight and that from time to time readmission to hospital is sometimes necessary. TABLE I.-Comparison of Groups A and B Group A (N = 30) Group B (N = 27) Average age at start of illness 19 years 17 years ,, ,, of onset of menarche.. 12-5 years 13 years ,, % standard weight* at onset of illness 93 91 Average time ill before treatment given .16 months 12 months Average weight loss .