Compulsive-shopping disorders are a growing concern. Between 2 percent and 8 percent of the U.S. population suffer from this syndrome, according to Stanford University researchers.

But a drug used in the treatment of depression may help compulsive shoppers curb their addiction.

Celexa, an anti-depressant primarily used to treat depression is also prescribed to those who suffer from seizures, liver disease, and mania. Forest Laboratory, the manufacturer of the anti-depressant, said research showed that those who struggled with compulsive shopping felt less anxiety and spent less time shopping and spent less money while on the anti-depressant.

A total of 24 subjects with compulsive-shopping disorder were chosen for this experiment. Twenty-three females and one male were studied for 12 weeks. All subjects have been fighting their compulsion for at least two decades, according to the report.

Seventy-one percent of subjects on the anti-depressant almost completely stopped their compulsive shopping ways. Many of the subjects reported they were able to go to a mall without making a purchase and could dispose of clothing catalogues without feeling guilty.

Researchers then switched subjects from Celexa to the placebo. When this occurred, five of eight subjects said they relapsed into their old compulsive patterns.

Some warning signs of compulsive shopping disorders may include preoccupation with purchasing unnecessary items and the inability to stop shopping.

More of these findings are in the July issue of the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.

For more information regarding Celexa, go to www.celexa.com