A randomized controlled trial of internet-based cognitive-behavioural therapy for bulimia nervosa or related disorders in a student population.
BACKGROUND
Bulimic eating disorders are common among female students, yet the majority do not access effective treatment. Internet-based cognitive-behavioural therapy (iCBT) may be able to bridge this gap.


METHODS
Seventy-six students with bulimia nervosa (BN) or eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS) were randomly assigned to immediate iCBT with e-mail support over 3 months or to a 3-month waiting list followed by iCBT [waiting list/delayed treatment control (WL/DTC)]. ED outcomes were assessed with the Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) at baseline, 3 months and 6 months. Other outcomes included depression, anxiety and quality of life.


RESULTS
Students who had immediate iCBT showed significantly greater improvements at 3 and 6 months than those receiving WL/DTC in ED and other symptoms.


CONCLUSIONS
iCBT with e-mail support is efficacious in students with bulimic disorders and has lasting effects.
Sánchez-Ortiz
V C
VC
Section of Eating Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, UK.
Munro
C
C
Stahl
D
D
House
J
J
Startup
H
H
Treasure
J
J
Williams
C
C
Schmidt
U
U
D000328:Adult; D052018:Bulimia Nervosa / Q000628:therapy*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D034742:Electronic Mail; D001068:Feeding and Eating Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008131:London; D019114:Remote Consultation; D013813:Therapy, Computer-Assisted; D014850:Waiting Lists