Bulimia Nervosa Treatments

Treatment

The goals of treatment are:

To stop binging and purging
To focus self-esteem away from body weight and shape

Treatments include:

Nutritional Consult

You may be referred to a registered dietitian. A dietitian can help you learn more about the components of a healthy diet, reasonable weight and calorie goals.

Psychotherapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy can be very effective. It may be particularly effective when combined with drug treatment.

Other therapies may be less effective, but can help patients:

Gain insight into the problem
Recognize what triggers binging and purging
Develop new coping skills
Learn and practice stress-management techniques
Talk about feelings
Develop a more appropriate idea of thinness
Develop healthier attitudes about eating
Learn to eat regularly to reduce the urge to binge

Medications

Antidepressant drugs, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), have proven effective in helping reduce these behaviors.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2025 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.