Sleep-Related Eating Disorder

Sleep-related eating disorder (SRED) is characterized by a disruption of the nocturnal fast with episodes of disordered feeding after an arousal from sleep. The dysfunctional eating often occurs in the setting of sedative–hypnotic medications, in particular the widely prescribed benzodiazepine receptor agonists such as zolpidem, inducing varying degrees of diminished consciousness. SRED is recognized as a parasomnia and is associated with other sleep disorders. SRED may in part be a nonmotor manifestation of restless legs syndrome. While treatment trials are still in their infancy, reports suggest that either dopaminergic agents or the antiseizure agent topiramate may be effective therapy.