Eating Disorders: Pica - Eating Disorders, Pica Treatment

Written by HealthyPlace.com Staff Writer

Consultations:

• Psychologist/Psychiatrist
  • Careful analysis of the function of pica behavior in individuals is critical to effective treatment.
  • Currently, behavioral strategies in treating pica have been most effective.
  • Among the behavioral strategies that have been effective are antecedent manipulation; discrimination training between edible and nonedible items; self-protection devices that prohibit placement of objects in the mouth; sensory reinforcement; differential reinforcement of other or incompatible behaviors, such as screening (covering eyes briefly), contingent aversive oral taste (lemon), contingent aversive smell sensation (ammonia), contingent aversive physical sensation (water mist), and brief physical restraint; and overcorrection (correct the environment, or practice appropriate alternative responses).
• Social worker
  • In toddlers and young children, pica behavior may provide environmental or sensory stimulation. Assistance in addressing these issues may prove beneficial, along with managing economic problems and/or deprivation and social isolation.
  • Assessment of cultural beliefs and traditions may reveal the need for education regarding the negative effects of pica.
  • Removal of toxic substances from the environment, particularly lead-based paint, is important.

Diet:

• Assessment of nutritional beliefs may be relevant in the treatment of some patients with pica.

• Address any identified nutritional deficiencies; however, nutritional and dietary approaches have demonstrated success related to the prevention of pica in only a very limited number of patients.

MEDICATION

Few studies have been performed using pharmacologic treatments for pica; however, the hypothesis that diminished dopaminergic neurotransmission is associated with the occurrence of pica suggests that drugs that enhance dopaminergic functioning may provide treatment alternatives in individuals with pica that is refractory to behavioral intervention. Medications used in the management of severe behavioral problems may have a positive impact on comorbid pica.

Further Outpatient Care:

• Treatment of pica is conducted primarily on an outpatient basis in consultation with multidisciplinary professionals as described above.

Prognosis:

• Pica frequently spontaneously remits in young children and pregnant women; however, it may persist for years if untreated, especially in individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities.

Patient Education:

• Educate patients regarding healthy nutritional practices

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