To assess the efficacy and safety of topiramate in treating binge eating disorder (BED), using a systematic review and meta-analysis of the available randomized clinical trials (RCTs).

The RCTs assessing topiramate vs placebo with or without adjunctive psychotherapy in BED were reviewed using a systematic search in the PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Cochrane Database of Systematic Review, and ClinicalTrials.gov search Websites, from inception to November 2019. Main outcomes were the changes in binge frequency, quality of life, and weight, respectively. Effect estimates were pooled using random-effect models and presented as risk ratios (RRs) or mean differences (MDs) and their 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Data extraction was performed by two independent reviewers.

Three studies were eligible for inclusion, involving 528 BED patients. Topiramate was found to be significantly more efficacious than placebo in reducing: (a) the number of binge episodes per week (MD = −1.31; 95% CI = −2.58 to −0.03; I2 = 94%); (b) the number of binge days per week (MD = −0.98; 95% CI = −1.80 to −0.16; I2 = 94%); and (c) weight (MD = −4.91 kg; 95% CI = −6.42 to −3.41; I2 = 10%). However, participants in the topiramate groups withdrew significantly more frequently for safety reasons, relative to placebo participants (RR = 1.90; 95% CI = 1.13-3.18, I2 = 0%).

Preliminary findings support a possible efficacy of topiramate for the treatment of BED, even if safety concerns could limit the practical use of this treatment in BED subjects.