When a medication mentions that it can cause anorexia as a side effect, it means that one of the possible adverse reactions to the medication is a loss of appetite or a decrease in food intake, leading to a reduced desire to eat. Anorexia, in this context, does not refer to the eating disorder known as anorexia nervosa, but rather to the symptom of decreased appetite.
Anorexia as a side effect is different from the eating disorder anorexia nervosa, which is a serious mental health condition characterized by a persistent restriction of food intake, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. Medications that list anorexia as a side effect are generally referring to the temporary and reversible reduction in appetite that some individuals may experience while taking the drug.
It's essential to differentiate between anorexia as a side effect of a medication and anorexia nervosa, as they are distinct conditions with different implications for a person's health. If you have concerns about any side effects of a medication you are taking, including changes in appetite, it's important to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can provide further information, address your concerns, and determine if any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.