Pica typically resolves itself spontaneously, especially in healthy children and pregnant women. However, in individuals with conditions such as autism and mental retardation, the eating disorder often continues into adolescence and adulthood. When pica is associated with other mental disorders, these also need to be treated.

In severe cases of disease or infection following the consumption of a poisonous or toxic substance (e.g., lead, rat poison), immediate hospitalization of the patient is necessary to prevent death.

The sooner an individual with pica is diagnosed and begins treatment, the better the outcome is likely to be. Due to its complexity, pica usually requires a comprehensive treatment plan involving various health professionals including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and/or primary health physicians. Behavioral therapy, a type of psychotherapy that focuses on modifying the patient’s abnormal or atypical behavior, is generally used for the treatment of pica.

Patients with pica-related dental problems (e.g., tooth and gum injuries) may be referred to a dentist (dental health specialist) for treatment.

Patients with pica are urged to get regular check-ups with their physician to monitor their overall health and treat any complications, such as intestinal obstruction and/or perforation.

Because individuals with pica may deny or not tell their physician that they regularly consume nonfood items out of shame or fear, the disorder is believed to be widely under recognized and underreported.