Long-term impact of treatment in women diagnosed with bulimia nervosa

Abstract

Objective: Both cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and antidepressant medication have demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of bulimia nervosa. However, data concerning the long-term impact of such treatments have been limited. This study sought to determine if treatment with CBT and antidepressant medication was associated with better long-term outcome among women diagnosed with bulimia nervosa.

Method: Women (N = 101) who completed a controlled treatment study of bulimia nervosa participated in follow-up assessments approximately 10 years later.

Results: Women who received treatment with CBT or antidepressant medication or both reported improved social adjustment at long-term follow-up compared with women randomized to the placebo condition.

Discussion: Treatments with demonstrated efficacy for short-term outcome appear to improve psychosocial function at long-term follow-up among women initially diagnosed with bulimia nervosa.