Medically, bulimia is defined as recurrent episodes of binge eating-rapid consumption of unusually large amounts of food, an average of twice per week for at least 3 months. Although bulimia literally means “hunger pf an ox, most bulimics do not excessive appetites. Instead, their tendency to overly compulsive appears to stem from psychological problems, perhaps […]
Because chronic clinical depression often accompanies bulimia, treatment usually includes giving selective antidepressant drugs that restore normal levels of serotonin, a brain chemical instrumental in mood control and appetite. The most commonly prescribed drugs for bulimia are the serotonin-reuptake inhibitors like fluoxetine (Prozac), which also suppresses appetite, and sertraline (Zoloft). As patients recover from their […]
Like all eating disorders, bulimia can be difficult to treat and usually requires a team approach involving ntstrition education, medications, and psychotherapy. If the patient appears to be suicidal or the intractable binge- purge behavior does not respond to outpatient therapy, hospitalization may be necessary. Don’t expect instant success, however; treatment often takes 3 years […]