Psychological, Pharmacologic Therapies Beneficial for Binge-Eating Disorder

Lisdexamfetamine, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and second-generation antidepressants (SGAs) improved outcomes in adults with binge-eating disorder vs placebo, according to a new meta-analysis.

Because little research has investigated the best treatment options for binge-eating disorder, the researchers aimed to summarize evidence about the benefits and harms of psychological and pharmacologic therapies for the condition.
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The researchers conducted their study by searching online databases for randomized trials that included adults with binge-eating disorder who participated in therapist-led CBT or were prescribed lisdexamfetamine or SGAs.

In total, 9 waitlist-controlled psychological trials, and 19 pharmacologic and 6 combination treatment trials that were placebo-controlled were included in the researchers’ analysis.

Overall, lisdexamfetamine, therapist-led CBT, and SGAs decreased binge-eating frequency and increased binge-eating abstinence. Lisdexamfetamine and SGAs reduced binge-eating–related obsessions and compulsions, and SGAs reduced symptoms of depression.

Some minor adverse effects—including headache, upset stomach, and sleep disturbance—were seen in adults prescribed lisdexamfetamine vs placebo.

“Cognitive behavioral therapy, lisdexamfetamine, SGAs, and topiramate reduced binge eating and related psychopathology, and lisdexamfetamine and topiramate reduced weight in adults with binge-eating disorder,” the researchers concluded.

—Amanda Balbi

Reference:

Brownley KA, Berkman ND, Peat CM, et al. Binge-eating disorder in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis [published online June 28, 2016]. Ann Intern Med. doi:10.7326/M15-2455.