Osteopenia in Anorexia Nervosa

This screening study evaluates bone loss in boys and girls ages 12-18, and adults ages 18-50, who suffer from anorexia nervosa. We are investigating the prevalence, causes, and predictors of osteopenia, or bone loss, in the spine, hip, wrist and total body. The study involves only one visit of approximately 3 hours and includes a bone density test, hormonal evaluation, and nutritional assessment at no cost.

For more information, please contact Erinne Meenaghan, N.P. by phone at 617-724-7393 or e-mail:  emeenaghan@partners.org

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Anorexia-Induced Bone Loss Treatment Study

This treatment study investigates the combined use of a natural hormone and a medication that is effective for treating bone loss in post-menopausal women as a novel therapy for the bone loss seen in women with anorexia nervosa. We will assess whether the combination of these two investigational medications will help rebuild depleted bone and prevent further bone breakdown in women with anorexia nervosa. The study recruits women ages 18 to 45 who suffer from anorexia nervosa and absent or irregular menstrual periods. The 12-month research study includes four outpatient and 2 inpatient hospital visits, and a stipend of up to $675 is awarded upon completion of the study.

For more information, please contact Erinne Meenaghan, N.P. by phone at 617-724-7393 or e-mail:  emeenaghan@partners.org

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For additional educational information and resources on anorexia nervosa and bone health, please see the educational information section of this site.