This study evaluated the relationship between noradrenergic function and long-term weight recovery in patients with anorexia nervosa. Eleven patients with long-term weight maintenance (6 to 72 months) had lower plasma and cerebrospinal fluid concentrations of norepinephrine and 3-methoxy-4-hydroxy-phenylglycol than did healthy controls. Reduced noradrenergic activity may be associated with long-term stability of weight recovery in patients with anorexia nervosa.