Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of topiramate plus cognitive-behavior therapy in binge-eating disorder

GLP-1 receptor agonists: A novel pharmacotherapy for binge eating (Binge eating disorder and bulimia nervosa)? A systematic review

Objective

Systematically review evidence on using GLP-1RAs for reducing BEB in BED and BN.

Methods

Comprehensive literature search (PubMed and Google Scholar) conducted for studies evaluating GLP-1Ras for BEB. Extracted data on study characteristics, efficacy, and safety.

Results

Studies show that GLP-1RAs (liraglutide and dulaglutide) reduce BE frequency and comorbidities in addition to favorable psychiatric side effect profile compared to current options. However, large-scale, blinded placebo-controlled trials are lacking.

Conclusion

Early findings suggest promising effects of GLP-1RAs on BEB. However, rigorous clinical trials are needed to firmly establish efficacy, dosing, safety, and comparative effectiveness before considering GLP-1RAs a viable novel approach.

Pharmacological Studies in Eating Disorders: A Historical Review

Eating disorders (EDs) are serious mental health conditions characterised by impaired eating behaviours and nutrition as well as disturbed body image, entailing considerable mortality and morbidity. Psychopharmacological medication is an important component in the treatment of EDs. In this review, we performed a historic analysis of pharmacotherapeutic research in EDs based on the scientific studies included in the recently published World Federation of Societies for Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) guidelines for ED treatment. This analysis focuses on early approaches and trends in the methods of clinical pharmacological research in EDs, for example, the sample sizes of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). We found the development of psychopharmacological treatments for EDs followed advancements in psychiatric pharmacotherapy. However, the application of RCTs to the study of pharmacotherapy for EDs may be an impediment as limited participant numbers and inadequate research funding impede generalisability and statistical power. Moreover, current medication usage often deviates from guideline recommendations. In conclusion, the RCT model may not effectively capture the complexities of ED treatment, and funding limitations hinder research activity. Novel genetically/biologically based treatments are warranted. A more comprehensive understanding of EDs and individualised approaches should guide research and drug development for improved treatment outcomes.

Naltrexone/bupropion for binge-eating disorder: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

Binge-eating disorder (BED) is a prevalent psychiatric disorder associated with obesity. Few evidence-based treatments exist for BED, particularly pharmacological options. This study tested the efficacy of naltrexone/bupropion for BED.

METHODS

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 12-week trial tested naltrexone/bupropion for BED with and without obesity. Eighty-nine patients (70.8% women, 69.7% White, mean age 45.7 y, mean BMI 35.1 kg/m2 , 77.5% with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 ) were randomized to placebo (n = 46) or naltrexone/bupropion (n = 43), with randomization stratified by obesity status and gender; 92.1% completed post-treatment assessments.

RESULTS

Mixed models of binge-eating frequency revealed significant reductions that did not differ significantly between naltrexone/bupropion and placebo. Logistic regression of binge-eating remission rates revealed that naltrexone/bupropion and placebo did not differ significantly. Obesity status did not predict, or moderate, binge-eating outcomes considered either continuously or categorically. Mixed models revealed that naltrexone/bupropion was associated with significantly greater percentage weight loss than placebo. Logistic regression revealed that naltrexone/bupropion had significantly higher rates of attaining ≥5% weight loss than placebo (27.9% vs. 6.5%). Obesity status did not predict or moderate weight-loss outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Naltrexone/bupropion did not demonstrate effectiveness for reducing binge eating relative to placebo but showed effectiveness for weight reduction in patients with BED. Obesity status did not predict or moderate medication outcomes.

Binge-Eating Disorder Interventions: Review, Current Status, and Implications

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Binge-eating disorder (BED) is a serious psychiatric problem associated with substantial morbidity that, unfortunately, frequently goes unrecognized and untreated. This review summarizes the current status of behavioral, psychological, pharmacological, and combined treatments for BED in adults with a particular focus on recent findings and advances.

RECENT FINDINGS

Certain specific psychological treatments, notably CBT and IPT, and to some extent DBT, have demonstrated efficacy and are associated with durable benefits after treatment. Certain specific lower-cost scalable interventions, notably CBTgsh, have demonstrated efficacy and have potential for broader uptake. An important advance is the emerging RCT data indicating that BWL, a generalist and available behavioral lifestyle intervention, has effectiveness that approximates that of CBT for reducing binge eating and eating-disorder psychopathology but with the advantage of also producing modest weight loss. There exists only one pharmacological agent (LDX) with approval by the FDA for "moderate-to-severe" BED. Research with other "off label" medications has yielded modest and mixed outcomes with a few medications statistically superior to placebo over the short-term and almost no longer-term data. Nearly all research combining medications and psychological treatments has failed to enhance outcomes (combined appears superior to pharmacotherapy-only but not to psychotherapy-only). Many people with BED suffer in silence and shame, go untreated, and rarely receive evidence-based treatments. Patients and practitioners need to recognize that research has identified several effective interventions for BED, and these can work quickly for many patients. Future research should identify treatments for those who do not derive benefit from initial interventions, identify additional pharmacological options, test agents with relevant mechanisms of action, and utilize innovative adaptative "SMART" designs to identify treatments to enhance outcomes among initial responders and to test alternative treatments to assist initial non-responders.

Features of Addiction in Binge-Eating Disorder: Considerations for Screening and Treatment

Similarities have been reported between the diagnostic and associated characteristics of binge-eating disorder (BED) and substance-related and non-substance-related disorders. This has resulted in interest in using addiction models to inform clinical care for people with BED. The purpose of this paper was to review features of addiction in BED with a focus on clinical implications. First, we briefly summarize similarities and differences in diagnostic and mechanistic features and symptoms for BED and food addiction, substance-related disorders, and non-substance-related disorders. Then we review aspects of addiction in BED that have clinical implications for screening and treatment of this condition. Similarities in diagnostic criteria between BED and substance-related and non-substance-related disorders include loss of control, greater use than intended, continued use despite adverse consequences, and marked distress. Addiction models may help inform aspects of clinical care of BED, particularly for shared antecedents and mechanisms underlying both disorders and to enhance engagement in treatment. Yet, there are large gaps in evidence regarding the effects of many aspects of addiction models to BED. More research is needed to examine the safety and efficacy of using addiction theories and frameworks for clinical strategies for BED.

SipNose-topiramate: a potential novel approach to binge eating management

BACKGROUND

Binge-eating disorder) BED) is the most common eating disorder in the United-States. Daily, orally administered topiramate has shown BED treatment efficacy, with two major limitations: frequent and severe side effects and slow time-to-effect. SipNose is a novel non-invasive intranasal direct nose-to-brain drug delivery platform that delivers drugs to the central nervous system consistently and rapidly. Herein, we study a SipNose-topiramate combination product, as an acute "as needed" (PRN) solution for BED management.

METHODS

First, SipNose-topiramate's pharmacokinetics (PK) and safety was evaluated. The second part aimed to demonstrate its PRN-treatment feasibility in terms of usability and potential efficacy in reducing the number of binge-eating events. Twelve BED patients were studied over three time periods; 2-weeks of baseline monitoring [BL], 8-weeks of treatment [TX], and 2-weeks of follow up [FU].

RESULTS

The PK profile showed peak plasma levels at 90 min post-administration, a t_1/2 > 24 h and consistent topiramate delivery with no adverse events. In the second part, 251 treatments were self-administered by the patient participants. There was a significant reduction from baseline to treatment periods in mean weekly binge-eating events and binge-eating event days per week. This was maintained during the follow up period. Efficacy was corroborated by improved patient illness severity scales. There were no adverse events associated with any administered treatments. Patients were exposed to less drug when compared with accepted oral dosing.

CONCLUSIONS

This study introduces a SipNose-topiramate drug-device combination as a potentially safe, effective, and controlled method for BED management. Its findings introduce a potential approach to BED management both as an intranasal and as a PRN therapy for reducing binge-eating events, with a large-scale reduction in patient drug exposure and side effects and with improved patient quality of life. Further studies are needed with larger patient populations to establish SipNose-topiramate as a mainstream treatment for BED.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registration number and date of registration of the clinical studies reported in this article are as follows: 0157-18-HMO, August 15th 2018 and 6814-20-SMC, December 2nd 2020.

World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) guidelines update 2023 on the pharmacological treatment of eating disorders

OBJECTIVES

This 2023 update of the WFSBP guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of eating disorders (EDs) reflects the latest diagnostic and psychopharmacological progress and the improved WFSBP recommendations for the assessment of the level of evidence (LoE) and the grade of recommendation (GoR).

METHODS

The WFSBP Task Force EDs reviewed the relevant literature and provided a timely grading of the LoE and the GoR.

RESULTS

In anorexia nervosa (AN), only a limited recommendation (LoE: A; GoR: 2) for olanzapine can be given, because the available evidence is restricted to weight gain, and its effect on psychopathology is less clear. In bulimia nervosa (BN), the current literature prompts a recommendation for fluoxetine (LoE: A; GoR: 1) or topiramate (LoE: A; GoR: 1). In binge-eating disorder (BED), lisdexamfetamine (LDX; LoE: A; GoR: 1) or topiramate (LoE: A; GoR: 1) can be recommended. There is only sparse evidence for the drug treatment of avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), pica, and rumination disorder (RD).

CONCLUSION

In BN, fluoxetine, and topiramate, and in BED, LDX and topiramate can be recommended. Despite the published evidence, olanzapine and topiramate have not received marketing authorisation for use in EDs from any medicine regulatory agency.

Naltrexone-Bupropion and Behavior Therapy, Alone and Combined, for Binge-Eating Disorder: Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

Binge-eating disorder, the most prevalent eating disorder, is a serious public health problem associated with obesity, psychiatric and medical comorbidities, and functional impairments. Binge-eating disorder remains underrecognized and infrequently treated, and few evidence-based treatments exist. The authors tested the effectiveness of naltrexone-bupropion and behavioral weight loss therapy (BWL), alone and combined, for binge-eating disorder comorbid with obesity.

METHODS

In a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial conducted from February 2017 to February 2021, using a 2×2 balanced factorial design, 136 patients with binge-eating disorder (81.6% women; mean age, 46.5 years; mean BMI, 37.1) were randomized to one of four 16-week treatments: placebo (N=34), naltrexone-bupropion (N=32), BWL+placebo (N=35), or BWL+naltrexone-bupropion (N=35). Overall, 81.7% of participants completed independent posttreatment assessments.

RESULTS

Intention-to-treat binge-eating remission rates were 17.7% in the placebo group, 31.3% in the naltrexone-bupropion group, 37.1% in the BWL+placebo group, and 57.1% in the BWL+naltrexone-bupropion group. Logistic regression of binge-eating remission revealed that BWL was significantly superior to no BWL, and that naltrexone-bupropion was significantly superior to placebo, but there was no significant interaction between BWL and medication. Mixed models of complementary measures of binge-eating frequency also indicated that BWL was significantly superior to no BWL. The rates of participants attaining 5% weight loss were 11.8% in the placebo group, 18.8% in the naltrexone-bupropion group, 31.4% in the BWL+placebo group, and 38.2% in the BWL+naltrexone-bupropion group. Logistic regression of 5% weight loss and mixed models of percent weight loss both revealed that BWL was significantly superior to no BWL. Mixed models revealed significantly greater improvements for BWL than no BWL on secondary measures (eating disorder psychopathology, depression, eating behaviors, and cholesterol and HbA1c levels).

CONCLUSIONS

BWL and naltrexone-bupropion were associated with significant improvements in binge-eating disorder, with a consistent pattern of BWL being superior to no BWL.

Reply to Skokou, M. Comment on “Keeler et al. Ketamine as a Treatment for Anorexia Nervosa: A Narrative Review. Nutrients 2021, 13, 4158”

In response to our narrative review, which suggested the use of the glutamatergic n-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist ketamine as a potential treatment for anorexia nervosa (AN) [...]

Efficacy and safety of topiramate in binge eating disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

To assess the efficacy and safety of topiramate in treating binge eating disorder (BED), using a systematic review and meta-analysis of the available randomized clinical trials (RCTs).

METHODS

The RCTs assessing topiramate vs placebo with or without adjunctive psychotherapy in BED were reviewed using a systematic search in the PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Cochrane Database of Systematic Review, and ClinicalTrials.gov search Websites, from inception to November 2019. Main outcomes were the changes in binge frequency, quality of life, and weight, respectively. Effect estimates were pooled using random-effect models and presented as risk ratios (RRs) or mean differences (MDs) and their 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Data extraction was performed by two independent reviewers.

RESULTS

Three studies were eligible for inclusion, involving 528 BED patients. Topiramate was found to be significantly more efficacious than placebo in reducing: (a) the number of binge episodes per week (MD = -1.31; 95% CI = -2.58 to -0.03; I2 = 94%); (b) the number of binge days per week (MD = -0.98; 95% CI = -1.80 to -0.16; I2 = 94%); and (c) weight (MD = -4.91 kg; 95% CI = -6.42 to -3.41; I2 = 10%). However, participants in the topiramate groups withdrew significantly more frequently for safety reasons, relative to placebo participants (RR = 1.90; 95% CI = 1.13-3.18, I2 = 0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Preliminary findings support a possible efficacy of topiramate for the treatment of BED, even if safety concerns could limit the practical use of this treatment in BED subjects.

Obesogenic Behavior and Binge Eating Disorder in an Elderly Female with Schizophrenia

Eating disorders, like binge eating, have a strong association with schizophrenia. Illness characteristics like disordered eating, cognition, and behavior can lead to eating disorders. Previous research highlighted the neurobiological structural similarity and the role of hormonal factors, like hypocretin, in the etiology of eating disorders in schizophrenia. Modifying the obesogenic environment by adapting healthy eating styles has been effective in reducing binging episodes. Antipsychotic medications also have a role in altering eating patterns that result in binge eating disorder. Adolescents with psychosis have a higher incidence of eating disorders. Here, we present an elderly female with schizophrenia who had obesogenic behaviors along with binge eating disorder. Interestingly, the patient had atypical age of onset and presentation and no psychopathological symptoms as a reason for binging.

Use of Topiramate in the Spectrum of Addictive and Eating Disorders: A Systematic Review Comparing Treatment Schemes, Efficacy, and Safety Features

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Topiramate has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of epilepsy since the 1990s, and it has also been used off-label in the treatment of many types of addictive disorders. To date, no systematic review has embraced the entire field of addiction, both substance use and behavioral addictions, including eating disorders, to compare topiramate-based protocols and the related level of evidence in each addictive disorder. Our objective is to fill this gap.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted using the MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Cochrane databases without a date or language limit. All trials and meta-analyses assessing the efficacy of topiramate in alcohol use disorder; cocaine use disorder; methamphetamine, nicotine, cannabis, opiate, and benzodiazepine use disorders; binge eating disorder; bulimia; and pathological gambling were analyzed. The quality of the studies was rated using the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias tool for randomized trials (ROB-2), the Risk of Bias In Nonrandomized Studies (ROBINS-I), or the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist, depending on the study design. Safety features were assessed based on a wider non-systematic review.

RESULTS

Sixty-two articles were reviewed. Treatment protocols were relatively homogenous across addictive disorders, with slow dose titration schemes and a maximum dose range of 200-400 mg per day. The most supportive evidence for topiramate efficacy was found in alcohol use disorder for drinking reduction parameters only. To a lesser extent, topiramate could be a promising therapeutic option for binge eating disorder and cocaine use disorder. Evidence was weak for other addictive disorders. No major tolerability issues were found, provided that basic safety rules were followed. Adverse drug reactions could lead to early treatment discontinuation.

DISCUSSION

Though off-label, addiction specialists should consider topiramate as a second-line option for drinking reduction in alcohol use disorder, as well as for binge eating disorder or cocaine use disorder.

The Neurobiology of Binge-eating Disorder Compared with Obesity: Implications for Differential Therapeutics

PURPOSE

Emerging work indicates divergence in the neurobiologies of binge-eating disorder (BED) and obesity despite their frequent co-occurrence. This review highlights specific distinguishing aspects of BED, including elevated impulsivity and compulsivity possibly involving the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system, and discusses implications for differential therapeutics for BED.

METHODS

This narrative review describes epidemiologic, clinical, genetic, and preclinical differences between BED and obesity. Subsequently, this review discusses human neuroimaging work reporting differences in executive functioning, reward processing, and emotion reactivity in BED compared with obesity. Finally, on the basis of the neurobiology of BED, this review identifies existing and new therapeutic agents that may be most promising given their specific targets based on putative mechanisms of action relevant specifically to BED.

FINDINGS

BED is characterized by elevated impulsivity and compulsivity compared with obesity, which is reflected in divergent neurobiological characteristics and effective pharmacotherapies. Therapeutic agents that influence both reward and executive function systems may be especially effective for BED.

IMPLICATIONS

Greater attention to impulsivity/compulsivity-related, reward-related, and emotion reactivity-related processes may enhance conceptualization and treatment approaches for patients with BED. Consideration of these distinguishing characteristics and processes could have implications for more targeted pharmacologic treatment research and interventions.

Psychotherapy and Medications for Eating Disorders: Better Together?

PURPOSE

Eating disorders are prevalent public health problems associated with broad psychosocial impairments and with elevated rates of psychiatric and medical comorbidities. Critical reviews of the treatment literature for eating disorders indicate that although certain specialized psychological treatments and specific medications show efficacy to varying degrees across the different eating disorders, many patients fail to derive sufficient benefit from existing treatments. This article addresses whether combining psychological and pharmacologic interventions confers any additional benefits for treating eating disorders.

METHODS

This study was a critical review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) testing combined psychological and pharmacologic treatment approaches for eating disorders with a focus on anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and binge-eating disorder (BED).

FINDINGS

For AN, 3 of the 4 RCTs reported no significant advantage for combining treatments; the fourth reported a statistically significant, albeit clinically modest, advantage. For BN, 10 of the 12 RCTs reported no significant advantage for combining treatments; 2 RCTs found that combining fluoxetine with specific psychological treatments enhanced outcomes relative to medication only but not relative to the psychological treatments only. For BED, of the 12 RCTs, only 2 (both with antiseizure medications) significantly enhanced both binge-eating and weight outcomes, and only 2 (with orlistat, a weight-loss medication) enhanced weight loss but not binge-eating outcomes.

IMPLICATIONS

Despite the public health significance of eating disorders, the scope of research performed on the utility of combining treatments is limited. To date, the few RCTs testing combined pharmacologic plus psychological treatments for eating disorders have yielded mostly nonsignificant findings. Future RCTs should focus on testing additive benefits of medications with relevant mechanisms of action to available effective psychological interventions. In addition, future RCTs that test additive effects should use adaptive designs, which could inform treatment algorithms to enhance outcomes among both responders and nonresponders to initial interventions.

A 12-Week Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial of Topiramate for the Treatment of Compulsive Buying Disorder

BACKGROUND

Topiramate is an anticonvulsant that has shown promise as a pharmacological agent for the treatment of addictive disorders, including compulsive buying disorder (CBD). The aim of the present study was to examine the efficacy of topiramate in the treatment of CBD and its associated characteristics using a 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design.

METHODS

Fifty patients seeking treatment of CBD who met the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (n = 25) or the control group (n = 25). Both groups received 4 sessions of psychoeducation.

RESULTS

Forty-four participants completed the follow-up with no differences in the rate of dropout between groups. There were no differences between participants who received topiramate or placebo in reducing CBD symptoms assessed by the primary outcome scale (Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale - Shopping Version). However, participants who received topiramate were significantly more likely to show clinical improvement when assessed by a secondary outcome measure, the Compulsive Buying Follow-Up Scale. In addition, there was a trend among participants who received topiramate to report improvements in aspects of hoarding and impulsivity compared with the control group. There were significant improvements in comorbid depression and social adjustments over time, but no group × time interaction was found.

CONCLUSIONS

The results do not provide support for the use of topiramate in the treatment of CBD. Future investigation with larger and representative samples and longer follow-up period are needed.

Binge Eating Disorder: A Psychiatrist's Commentary on Clinical Considerations

PURPOSE

Of the 3 major eating disorders, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder (BED), BED is the most common and exists in the practices of most primary care and psychiatric clinicians. However, BED often goes unrecognized and thus untreated.

METHODS

Reviewed in this commentary are the basic elements in the diagnosis of BED, demographic and clinical characteristics, screening options, the importance of comorbidities, pathophysiology, and available treatments.

FINDINGS

Psychological treatments, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and behavioral weight loss, have been recommended as first-line options and are supported by several different meta-analytic reviews. Lisdexamfetamine is currently the only medication approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of BED. Effect sizes for lisdexamfetamine versus placebo for response, remission, and avoidance of relapse in BED are robust, but its use may be limited by tolerability. This is also the case for topiramate, an anticonvulsant that has been used "off-label" to treat BED.

IMPLICATIONS

Additional medication choices approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of BED are needed. Moving forward, opportunities to leverage modern technology to broaden access to treatment are highly desirable.

Naltrexone + Bupropion Combination for the Treatment of Binge-eating Disorder with Obesity: A Randomized, Controlled Pilot Study

PURPOSE

Binge-eating disorder (BED), the most prevalent eating disorder, is associated strongly with obesity and functional impairments. Few evidence-based treatments for BED exist; a pharmacotherapy effective in reducing both binge eating and weight needs to be identified. This placebo-controlled double-blind pilot RCT evaluated the acute effects of naltrexone + bupropion (NB) on BED with obesity and examined the longer-term effects through 6-month follow-up after the discontinuation of medication.

METHODS

Twenty-two adult patients with BED were randomized to receive 12 weeks of double-blind treatment with fixed-dose NB (naltrexone + bupropion XL 50/300 mg) or placebo. Independent (blinded) researcher-clinicians evaluated patients at major outcome time points (baseline, posttreatment, and 6-month follow-up after the treatment period); patients were also evaluated for the tracking of course/tolerability throughout treatments and at 3-month follow-up. Primary outcomes were changes from baseline in binge-eating frequency and percentage weight. Secondary outcomes were changes in eating-disorder psychopathology and depression.

FINDINGS

A total of 22 patients were enrolled (86.4% women; mean age, 50.4 years), with 77.3% of patients completing treatments; completion rates (NB, 83.3%; placebo, 70.0%) and adverse events did not differ significantly between NB and placebo. Analyses revealed significant reductions from baseline in binge-eating, eating-disorder psychopathology, depression, and weight during treatment, but these changes with NB did not differ significantly from those with placebo. The percentage of patients who attained 3% weight loss was significantly greater with NB than with placebo (45.5% vs 0%); weight-loss and binge-eating reductions were significantly correlated in the group that received NB. At 6-month follow-up, outcomes remained improved relative to baseline, with no significant differences between NB and placebo.

IMPLICATIONS

The findings from this pilot RCT suggest that NB was well-tolerated in these patients with BED and comorbid obesity. Most outcomes were not statistically different between NB and placebo. A larger-scale, adequately powered RCT is needed for determining the efficacy of NB in the treatment of BED. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02317744.

Impulsiveness as a moderator of amphetamine treatment response for cocaine use disorder among ADHD patients

BACKGROUND

Amphetamines are a first-line treatment for ADHD and have shown promise for the treatment of cocaine use disorder (CUD), both alone and with comorbid ADHD. Impulsiveness is a key aspect of both ADHD and substance use disorders. We sought to understand the role of baseline impulsiveness in the treatment of comorbid CUD and ADHD.

METHODS

In a post hoc analysis (N = 76) of a 14-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of mixed amphetamine salts-extended release (MAS-ER) for comorbid ADHD and CUD, we examined the relationship between treatment response and participants' baseline Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) score by comparing those with scores below versus above the median. In the original trial, participants received daily 60 mg MAS-ER, 80 mg MAS-ER, or placebo, in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy.

RESULTS

The odds of a cocaine-abstinent week over time were significantly greater in the high BIS group compared to the low BIS group, both when missing data was treated as missing (p = .0155; OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.13, 1.35 versus OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.95, 1.15) and when missing data was treated as cocaine-positive (p = .003; OR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.24 versus OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.88, 1.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results show an association between higher within-group trait impulsiveness, as measured by the BIS-11, and response to MAS-ER for CUD in a cohort with comorbid ADHD. This result further demonstrates that impulsiveness is an important factor when considering treatment options for patients with CUD and that higher baseline impulsiveness may predict response to treatment with psychostimulants for CUD.

A review of binge eating disorder and obesity

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a mental illness characterised by recurrent binge eating episodes in the absence of appropriate compensatory behaviours. Consequently, BED is strongly associated with obesity. The current review aims to provide an update of the most relevant aspects of BED (e.g., clinical profile, aetiology and treatment approaches), in order not only to facilitate a better understanding of the disorder and its clinical consequences, but also to identify potential targets of prevention and intervention. Patients with BED often present high comorbidity with other medical conditions and psychiatric disorders. Numerous risk factors have been associated with the development and maintenance of the disorder. Moreover, although some treatments for BED have proven to be effective in addressing different key aspects of the disorder, the rates of patients that have ever received specific treatment for BED are very low. The factors involved and how to implement effective treatments will be discussed for the purpose of addressing the eating symptomatology and comorbid obesity.

Examining sex as a predictor and moderator of treatment outcomes for binge-eating disorder: Analysis of aggregated randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

This study examined whether sex predicted and/or moderated treatment outcomes among men and women who participated in binge-eating disorder (BED) randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

METHOD

Data were aggregated from RCTs performed at one medical center. RCTs tested cognitive-behavioral therapy, behavioral weight loss, multimodal treatment, and/or control conditions. Participants were 660 adults, both men (n = 170) and women (n = 490), with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual-fourth edition (DSM-IV)-defined BED. Doctoral-level research-clinicians assessed participants using structured interviews and established self-report measures of eating-disorder psychopathology and depression, and measured height and weight. Assessments occurred at baseline, throughout treatment, and at post-treatment.

RESULTS

Sex was not a significant moderator of any treatment outcomes. Mixed models revealed sex had a main effect: men had lower eating-disorder psychopathology and lost more weight than women over the course of treatment.

DISCUSSION

Both epidemiological and RCT studies report disparities in treatment-seeking between men and women with BED. Despite this, men have comparable or better treatment outcomes compared with women, including significantly greater weight loss. Thus, disseminating evidence-based BED treatments is promising for both men and women. Additional research is necessary, however, to understand treatment effects-including other predictors and moderators of outcomes-across diverse providers, treatment settings, and patient groups.

Investigational drugs for the treatment of binge eating disorder (BED): an update

Introduction: Binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder and is frequently associated with psychiatric and medical comorbidities and functional impairment. Although psychological treatments have been the cornerstones of BED treatment, pharmacologic interventions also play an important part of the multimodal management of this condition.Areas covered: This review examines investigational, approved and other pharmacological agents for the treatment of BED. We searched PubMed and clinicaltrials.gov to identify pharmacological interventions for the management of this condition.Expert opinion: BED pharmacological studies have incorporated new drug targets based on our enhanced understanding of the pathophysiology of BED. Neurobiological dysregulation in the reward center and impulse control circuitry and related disturbances in dopamine neurotransmission are among the neurobiological explanations that have been suggested for BED. These mechanisms serve as a pharmacodynamic foundation for the development of new compounds such as lisdexamfetamine (LDX) and dasotraline. Despite these advances, pharmacological trials in BED have numerous challenges that must be overcome. For most compounds studied, larger and more definitive trials is a high priority.

An Innovative Disease-Drug-Trial Framework to Guide Binge Eating Disorder Drug Development: A Case Study for Topiramate

As with other psychiatric disorders, development of drugs to treat binge-eating disorder (BED) has been hampered by high placebo response and dropout rates in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Although not approved for use in BED, several RCTs have suggested that topiramate is efficacious for BED in obese individuals. Using data from a positive investigator-initiated RCT of topiramate in 61 obese individuals with BED, the objective of the present study is (i) to develop a quantitative disease-drug-trial framework to inform future BED clinical trial designs, and (ii) to determine the optimal topiramate dose to achieve therapeutic efficacy. Disease-drug-trial models were developed separately for the two efficacy measures, namely, longitudinal normalized weekly binge-eating episode frequency (BEF) and binge day frequency (BDF). Model building consisted of (i) developing a placebo effect model that describes response from the placebo group, (ii) adding a drug effect to the placebo model to describe dose-response relationships, and (iii) developing a parametric time to event model to characterize patient dropout patterns. The placebo effect on normalized BEF and BDF over time demonstrated a maximum decrease of ~ 57% by 5 weeks. Participants had a higher dropout probability if no weight loss occurred during the trial period. The identified dose-response relationship demonstrated a daily dose of 125 mg was needed to exhibit a marked reduction in weekly BEF. The developed comprehensive disease-drug-trial model will be utilized to simulate different clinical trial designs to increase the success for future BED drug development programs.

Examining race as a predictor and moderator of treatment outcomes for binge-eating disorder: Analysis of aggregated randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether race predicted or moderated response to treatments for binge-eating disorder (BED).

METHOD

Participants were 592 adults (n = 113 Black; n = 479 White) with DSM-IV-defined BED who participated in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) at 1 medical center. Data were aggregated from RCTs for BED testing cognitive-behavioral therapy, behavioral weight loss, multimodal treatment, and/or control conditions. Participants had weight and height measured and were assessed using established interviews and self-report measures at baseline, throughout treatment, and post treatment.

RESULTS

Race did not significantly moderate treatment outcomes. Mixed models revealed a main effect of race: Black participants had fewer binge-eating episodes and lower depression than White participants across time points. Race also had a main effect in generalized estimating equations with a significantly greater proportion of Black participants achieving binge-eating remission than White participants. Race did not predict percent weight loss, but a significantly lower proportion of Black participants attained 5% weight loss than White participants. Race did not significantly predict global eating-disorder severity.

CONCLUSION

Despite disparities in treatment-seeking reported in epidemiological and RCT studies, Black individuals appear to have comparable or better treatment outcomes in BED treatment research compared with White individuals, except they were less likely to attain 5% weight loss at post treatment. This suggests that disseminating evidence-based treatments for BED among diverse populations holds promise and treatments may not require further adaptation prior to dissemination. Implementation research is needed to test treatment effectiveness across diverse providers, settings, and patient groups to improve understanding of potential predictors and moderators. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).

Progress in Developing Pharmacologic Agents to Treat Bulimia Nervosa

This paper reviews past and current progress in developing pharmacologic agents for the treatment of individuals with bulimia nervosa (BN). We searched the literature and clinical trial registries for compounds studied in BN, the related condition, binge eating disorder (BED), and preclinical models of binge-eating behavior. Drug classes evaluated included antidepressants, antiepileptic drugs, stimulants and other medications for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, opioid antagonists, and weight loss agents, among others. The only available drugs with established efficacy in BN at this time include antidepressants (especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors [SSRIs]) and the antiepileptic topiramate, though the efficacy of these compounds is modest at best. The only medications we found currently receiving empirical study in people with BN were fluoxetine, other serotonergic antidepressants, intranasal naloxone, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, phentermine-topiramate combination, the antiandrogenic oral contraceptive ethinyl estradiol plus drospirenone, and prazosin. Preclinical models suggest that nociceptin receptor antagonists, the selective serotonin 5-HT2C receptor agonist lorcaserin, monoamine stabilizers, and selective orexin-1 receptor antagonists might be helpful. We found no evidence of a drug developed specifically for the treatment of individuals with BN. Future areas for research in the pharmacotherapy of BN are suggested. Importantly, until drugs are developed specifically for eating disorders, drugs developed for other conditions that are centrally acting and associated with beneficial psychotropic effects and/or reduced appetite or weight loss might be considered for repurposing in BN.

Rates of abstinence following psychological or behavioral treatments for binge-eating disorder: Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Standardized effect sizes reported in previous meta-analyses of binge-eating disorder (BED) treatment are sometimes difficult to interpret and are criticized for not being a useful indicator of the clinical importance of a treatment. Abstinence from binge eating is a clinically relevant component of a definition of a successful treatment outcome. This meta-analysis estimated the prevalence of patients with BED who achieved binge eating abstinence following psychological or behavioral treatments.

METHOD

This meta-analysis included 39 randomized controlled trials, with 65 treatment conditions and 2,349 patients. Most conditions comprised cognitive-behavioral therapy (n = 40). Pooled event rates were calculated at posttreatment and follow-up using random effects models.

RESULTS

The total weighted percentage of treatment-completers who achieved abstinence at posttreatment was 50.9% (95% CI = 43.9, 57.8); this estimate was almost identical at follow-up (50.3%; 95% CI = 43.6, 56.9). The total weighted percentage of patients who achieved abstinence at posttreatment in the intention-to-treat analysis (all randomized patients) was 45.1% (95% CI =40.7, 49.5), and at follow-up it was 42.3% (95% CI =37.5, 47.2). Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) produced the highest abstinence rates. Clinician-led group treatments produced significantly higher posttreatment (but not follow-up) abstinence estimates than guided self-help treatments. Neither timeframe for achieving abstinence, assessment type (interview/questionnaire), number of treatment sessions, patient demographics, nor trial quality, moderated the abstinence estimates.

DISCUSSION

The present findings demonstrate that 50% of patients with BED do not fully respond to treatment. Continued efforts toward improving eating disorder treatments are needed.

Psychological, pharmacological, and combined treatments for binge eating disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

To systematically review the efficacy of psychological, pharmacological, and combined treatments for binge eating disorder (BED).

Method

Systematic search and meta-analysis.

Results

We found 45 unique studies with low/medium risk of bias, and moderate support for the efficacy of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and CBT guided self-help (with moderate quality of evidence), and modest support for interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), and lisdexamfetamine (with low quality of evidence) in the treatment of adults with BED in terms of cessation of or reduction in the frequency of binge eating. The results on weight loss were disappointing. Only lisdexamfetamine showed a very modest effect on weight loss (low quality of evidence). While there is limited support for the long-term effect of psychological treatments, we have currently no data to ascertain the long-term effect of drug treatments. Some undesired side effects are more common in drug treatment compared to placebo, while the side effects of psychological treatments are unknown. Direct comparisons between pharmaceutical and psychological treatments are lacking as well as data to generalize these results to adolescents.

Conclusion

We found moderate support for the efficacy of CBT and guided self-help for the treatment of BED. However, IPT, SSRI, and lisdexamfetamine received only modest support in terms of cessation of or reduction in the frequency of binge eating. The lack of long-term follow-ups is alarming, especially with regard to medication. Long-term follow-ups, standardized assessments including measures of quality of life, and the study of underrepresented populations should be a priority for future research.

Binge-Eating Disorder in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The best treatment options for binge-eating disorder are unclear.

PURPOSE

To summarize evidence about the benefits and harms of psychological and pharmacologic therapies for adults with binge-eating disorder.

DATA SOURCES

English-language publications in EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Academic OneFile, CINAHL, and ClinicalTrials.gov through 18 November 2015, and in MEDLINE through 12 May 2016.

STUDY SELECTION

9 waitlist-controlled psychological trials and 25 placebo-controlled trials that evaluated pharmacologic (n = 19) or combination (n = 6) treatment. All were randomized trials with low or medium risk of bias.

DATA EXTRACTION

2 reviewers independently extracted trial data, assessed risk of bias, and graded strength of evidence.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Therapist-led cognitive behavioral therapy, lisdexamfetamine, and second-generation antidepressants (SGAs) decreased binge-eating frequency and increased binge-eating abstinence (relative risk, 4.95 [95% CI, 3.06 to 8.00], 2.61 [CI, 2.04 to 3.33], and 1.67 [CI, 1.24 to 2.26], respectively). Lisdexamfetamine (mean difference [MD], -6.50 [CI, -8.82 to -4.18]) and SGAs (MD, -3.84 [CI, -6.55 to -1.13]) reduced binge-eating-related obsessions and compulsions, and SGAs reduced symptoms of depression (MD, -1.97 [CI, -3.67 to -0.28]). Headache, gastrointestinal upset, sleep disturbance, and sympathetic nervous system arousal occurred more frequently with lisdexamfetamine than placebo (relative risk range, 1.63 to 4.28). Other forms of cognitive behavioral therapy and topiramate also increased abstinence and reduced binge-eating frequency and related psychopathology. Topiramate reduced weight and increased sympathetic nervous system arousal, and lisdexamfetamine reduced weight and appetite.

LIMITATIONS

Most study participants were overweight or obese white women aged 20 to 40 years. Many treatments were examined only in single studies. Outcomes were measured inconsistently across trials and rarely assessed beyond end of treatment.

CONCLUSION

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.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE

Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

Lisdexamfetamine reduces the compulsive and perseverative behaviour of binge-eating rats in a novel food reward/punished responding conflict model

Compulsive and perseverative behaviour in binge-eating, female, Wistar rats was investigated in a novel food reward/punished responding conflict model. Rats were trained to perform the conditioned avoidance response task. When proficient, the paradigm was altered to a food-associated conflict test by placing a chocolate-filled jar (empty jar for controls) in one compartment of the shuttle box. Entry into the compartment with the jar triggered the conditioning stimulus after a variable interval, and foot-shock 10 seconds later if the rat did not leave. Residence in the 'safe' compartment with no jar did not initiate trials or foot-shocks. By frequently entering the chocolate-paired compartment, binge-eating rats completed their 10 trials more quickly than non-binge controls. Binge-eating rats spent a greater percentage of the session in the chocolate-paired compartment, received foot-shocks more frequently, and tolerated foot-shocks for longer periods; all consistent with compulsive and perseverative behaviour. The d-amphetamine prodrug, lisdexamfetamine, has recently received US approval for the treatment of moderate to severe binge-eating disorder in adults. Lisdexamfetamine (0.8 mg/kg po [d-amphetamine base]) decreased chocolate consumption by binge-eating rats by 55% and markedly reduced compulsive and perseverative responding in the model. These findings complement clinical results showing lisdexamfetamine reduced compulsiveness scores in subjects with binge-eating disorder.

Combining Pharmacological and Psychological Treatments for Binge Eating Disorder: Current Status, Limitations, and Future Directions

Binge eating disorder (BED) is characterized by recurrent binge eating and marked distress about binge eating without the extreme compensatory behaviors for weight control that characterize other eating disorders. BED is prevalent, associated strongly with obesity, and is associated with heightened levels of psychological, psychiatric, and medical concerns. This article provides an overview of randomized controlled treatments for combined psychological and pharmacological treatment of BED to inform current clinical practice and future treatment research. In contrast to the prevalence and significance of BED, to date, limited research has been performed on combining psychological and pharmacological treatments for BED to enhance outcomes. Our review here found that combining certain medications with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or behavioral weight loss (BWL) interventions produces superior outcomes to pharmacotherapy only but does not substantially improve outcomes achieved with CBT/BWL only. One medication (orlistat) has improved weight losses with CBT/BWL albeit minimally, and only one medication (topiramate) has enhanced reductions achieved with CBT in both binge eating and weight. Implications for future research are discussed.

Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate for Adults with Moderate to Severe Binge Eating Disorder: Results of Two Pivotal Phase 3 Randomized Controlled Trials

The efficacy and safety of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX) vs placebo in binge eating disorder (BED) was evaluated in two multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. Adults (study 1, n=383; study 2, n=390) meeting DSM-IV-TR BED criteria were randomized (1:1) to placebo or LDX (50 or 70 mg/day) dose titration; optimized doses were maintained to the end of double-blind treatment (week 12/early termination). Change from baseline in binge eating days/week at weeks 11-12 (primary efficacy endpoint) was assessed with mixed-effects models for repeated measures. Secondary endpoints related to binge eating and medical parameters, safety, and treatment compliance were also assessed. Least squares mean (95% CI) treatment differences for change from baseline binge eating days/week at weeks 11-12 significantly favored LDX (study 1: -1.35 [-1.70, -1.01]; study 2: -1.66 [-2.04, -1.28]; both P<0.001). In both studies, treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) reported by ⩾10% of LDX participants were dry mouth, insomnia, and headache. Serious TEAEs occurred in two (1.1%) placebo participants in each study and in three (1.6%) and one (0.6%) LDX participants in study 1 and study 2, respectively. Across studies, mean increases from baseline at week 12/early termination with LDX for pulse and systolic and diastolic blood pressure ranged from 4.41-6.31 b.p.m. and 0.2-1.45 and 1.06-1.83 mm Hg, respectively. LDX (50 and 70 mg/day) was superior to placebo in decreasing binge eating days/week from baseline and improving binge eating-related key secondary endpoints. Safety results appear consistent with the known safety profile of LDX.

A primer on binge eating disorder diagnosis and management

Binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder, with an estimated lifetime prevalence of 2.6% among U.S. adults, yet often goes unrecognized. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), BED is defined by recurrent episodes of binge eating (eating in a discrete period of time an amount of food larger than most people would eat in a similar amount of time under similar circumstances and a sense of lack of control over eating during the episode), occurring on average at least once a week for 3 months, and associated with marked distress. It can affect both men and women, regardless if they are at normal weight, overweight, or obese, and regardless of their ethnic or racial group. Psychiatric comorbidities are very common, with 79% of adults with BED also experiencing anxiety disorders, mood disorders, impulse control disorders, or substance use disorders; almost 50% of persons with BED have ≥ 3 psychiatric comorbidities. Multiple neurobiological explanations have been proffered for BED, including dysregulation in reward center and impulse control circuitry, with potentially related disturbances in dopamine neurotransmission and endogenous μ-opioid signaling. Additionally, there is interplay between genetic influences and environmental stressors. Psychological treatments such as cognitive behavioral interventions have been recommended as first line and are supported by meta-analytic reviews. Unfortunately, routine medication treatments for anxiety and depression do not necessarily ameliorate the symptoms of BED; however, at present, there is one approved agent for the treatment of moderate to severe BED-lisdexamfetamine, a stimulant that was originally approved for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Overview of the treatment of binge eating disorder

We performed a qualitative review of treatment studies of binge eating disorder (BED), focusing on randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Limited effectiveness has been demonstrated for self-help strategies, and substantial effectiveness has been shown for cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT). CBT and IPT may each be more effective than behavior weight loss therapy (BWLT) for reducing binge eating over the long term. The stimulant pro-drug lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX) is the only drug approved by the FDA for the treatment of BED in adults based on 2 pivotal RCTs. Topiramate also decreases binge eating behavior, but its use is limited by its adverse event profile. Antidepressants may be modestly effective over the short term for reducing binge eating behavior and comorbid depressive symptoms, but are not associated with clinically significant weight loss. A RCT presented in abstract form suggests that intranasal naloxone may decrease time spent binge eating. There is no RCT of obesity surgery in BED, but many patients with BED seek and receive such surgery. While some studies suggest patients with BED and obesity do just as well as patients with obesity alone, other studies suggest that patients with BED have more post-operative complications, less weight loss, and more weight regain. This evidence suggests that patients with BED would benefit from receiving highly individualized treatment.

Pharmacological approaches to the management of binge eating disorder

In the USA, binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder, with a lifetime prevalence of ~3.5 % in adult women, 2.0 % in adult men, and 1.6 % in adolescents. BED is characterized by frequent episodes of binge eating that are accompanied by a sense of loss of control over eating and result in marked psychological distress. BED is highly co-morbid with obesity and with depression and other psychiatric conditions, and it is associated with substantial role impairment. Currently, there are no US FDA-approved pharmacological treatments for BED. Animal and human studies implicate underlying dysregulation in dopamine, opioid, acetylcholine, and serotonin neurocircuitry within brain reward regions in the pathogenesis and maintenance of BED. To date, the efficacy of various agents that target these and other neurotransmitter systems involved in motivated feeding behavior, mood regulation, and impulse control have been investigated in the treatment of BED. Several antidepressant and anticonvulsant agents have demonstrated efficacy in reducing binge eating frequency, but only in limited cases have these effects resulted in patients achieving abstinence, which is the primary goal of treatment; they also range from less (fluvoxamine) to more (topiramate) effective in achieving weight loss that is both clinically meaningful and significantly greater than placebo. Collectively, the literature on pharmacological treatment approaches to BED is limited in that very few agents have been studied in multiple, confirmatory trials with adequate follow up, and almost none have been evaluated in large patient samples that are diverse with respect to age, sex, and ethnicity. In addition, prior trials have not adequately addressed, through study design, the high placebo response commonly observed in this patient population. Several novel agents are in various phases of testing, and recent animal studies focusing on glutamate-signaling circuits linking the amygdala to the lateral hypothalamus offer new avenues for exploration and potential therapeutic development. Studies of newly FDA-approved medications for long-term obesity treatment and further explorations of dietary supplements and neutraceuticals with appetite- and mood-altering properties may also be worthwhile.

Pharmacological treatment of binge eating disorder: update review and synthesis

INTRODUCTION

Binge eating disorder (BED), a formal eating disorder diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), is characterized by recurrent binge eating, marked distress about binge eating, and the absence of extreme weight compensatory behaviors. BED is more prevalent than other eating disorders, with broader distribution across age, sex and ethnic/racial groups, and is associated strongly with obesity and heightened risk for psychiatric/medical comorbidities.

AREAS COVERED

This article provides an overview of pharmacotherapy for BED with a focus on Phase III randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The search with minimal methodological inclusion requirements yielded 22 RCTs investigating several different medication classes; most were pharmacotherapy-only trials with 8 trials testing combination approaches with psychological-behavioral methods.

EXPERT OPINION

The evidence base regarding pharmacotherapy for BED remains limited, although this year the FDA approved the first medication (i.e., lisdexamfetamine dimesylate; LDX) specifically for moderate-to-severe BED. Data from RCTs suggest certain medications are superior to placebos for reducing binge eating over the short term; almost no data exist regarding longer-term effects of pharmacotherapy for BED. Except for topiramate, which significantly reduces both binge eating and weight, tested medications yield minimal weight loss and LDX is not indicated for weight loss. Psychological-behavioral and combination approaches with certain medications yield superior outcomes to pharmacotherapy-only acutely and over longer-term follow-up.

Treatment of Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder is a common eating disorder that recently has received increasing attention. Goals in treating binge eating disorder typically include controlling binge eating and diminishing excess body weight. A variety of treatment approaches have been used, including diet/lifestyle modification, psychotherapy, and pharmacologic treatment. Diet and lifestyle interventions are somewhat effective in diminishing the binge eating behavior and lead to modest weight loss, but the weight effects are limited and not typically lasting. A number of psychotherapies have been shown to be beneficial, mostly for stopping binge eating, and tend to show little impact on weight loss. Numerous pharmacologic interventions have been developed, with the focus on antidepressants (used for their anti-binge eating effects) and weight loss drugs. Both have been shown to be helpful but again, for antidepressants, bringing about lasting weight loss appears to be difficult. The most effective approach to treating binge eating disorder (if available) is likely psychotherapy combined with medication management as indicated.

Pharmacological means of reducing human drug dependence: a selective and narrative review of the clinical literature

Substance abuse or addictive disorder is a global problem. A greater understanding of the associated changes in brain pathophysiology supports the notion that pharmacological treatments are part of the necessary treatment options. Craving is a core symptom of addictive disorder. It refers to a strong desire to use drugs again either to re-experience positive effects or to diminish negative experiences. Currently there are a number of medicines that are effective in the treatment of addictive disorders. These medications can either be for substitution (same pharmacological effect as the abused substance) or anticraving (decrease the craving of the abused substance). In this MEDLNE based review, specific compounds (naltrexone, acamprosate, topiramate, disulfiram, baclofen, N-acetylcysteine and bupropion) were selected that are known to diminish desire to use (anticraving effect) and that have been trialled for a number of different substance addictive disorders. Their therapeutic potential in clinical practice is discussed in light of their efficacy.

Treatment of binge eating disorder in racially and ethnically diverse obese patients in primary care: randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial of self-help and medication

The objective was to determine whether treatments with demonstrated efficacy for binge eating disorder (BED) in specialist treatment centers can be delivered effectively in primary care settings to racially/ethnically diverse obese patients with BED. This study compared the effectiveness of self-help cognitive-behavioral therapy (shCBT) and an anti-obesity medication (sibutramine), alone and in combination, and it is only the second placebo-controlled trial of any medication for BED to evaluate longer-term effects after treatment discontinuation. 104 obese patients with BED (73% female, 55% non-white) were randomly assigned to one of four 16-week treatments (balanced 2-by-2 factorial design): sibutramine (N = 26), placebo (N = 27), shCBT + sibutramine (N = 26), or shCBT + placebo (N = 25). Medications were administered in double-blind fashion. Independent assessments were performed monthly throughout treatment, post-treatment, and at 6- and 12-month follow-ups (16 months after randomization). Mixed-models analyses revealed significant time and medication-by-time interaction effects for percent weight loss, with sibutramine but not placebo associated with significant change over time. Percent weight loss differed significantly between sibutramine and placebo by the third month of treatment and at post-treatment. After the medication was discontinued at post-treatment, weight re-gain occurred in sibutramine groups and percent weight loss no longer differed among the four treatments at 6- and 12-month follow-ups. For binge-eating, mixed-models revealed significant time and shCBT-by-time interaction effects: shCBT had significantly lower binge-eating frequency at 6-month follow-up but the treatments did not differ significantly at any other time point. Demographic factors did not significantly predict or moderate clinical outcomes. Our findings suggest that pure self-help CBT and sibutramine did not show long-term effectiveness relative to placebo for treating BED in racially/ethnically diverse obese patients in primary care. Overall, the treatments differed little with respect to binge-eating and associated outcomes. Sibutramine was associated with significantly greater acute weight loss than placebo and the observed weight-regain following discontinuation of medication suggests that anti-obesity medications need to be continued for weight loss maintenance. Demographic factors did not predict/moderate clinical outcomes in this diverse patient group.

Current and emerging drug treatments for binge eating disorder

INTRODUCTION

This study evaluated controlled treatment studies of pharmacotherapy for binge eating disorder (BED).

AREAS COVERED

The primary focus of the review was on Phase II and III controlled trials testing medications for BED. A total of 46 studies were considered and 26 were reviewed in detail. BED outcomes included binge eating remission, binge eating frequency, associated eating disorder psychopathology, associated depression and weight loss.

EXPERT OPINION

Data from controlled trials suggest that certain medications are superior to placebo for stopping binge eating and for producing faster reductions in binge eating, and - to varying degrees - for reducing associated eating disorder psychopathology, depression and weight loss over the short term. Almost no data exist regarding longer-term effects of medication for BED. Except for topiramate, which reduces both binge eating and weight, weight loss is minimal with medications tested for BED. Psychological interventions and the combination of medication with psychological interventions produce binge eating outcomes that are superior to medication-only approaches. Combining medications with psychological interventions does not significantly enhance binge eating outcomes, although the addition of certain medications enhances weight losses achieved with cognitive-behavioral therapy and behavioral weight loss, albeit modestly.

Do end of treatment assessments predict outcome at follow-up in eating disorders?

OBJECTIVE

To examine the predictive value of end of treatment (EOT) outcomes for longer term recovery status.

METHOD

We used signal detection analysis to identify the best predictors of recovery based on outcome at EOT using five different eating disorder samples from randomized clinical treatment trials. We utilized a transdiagnostic definition of recovery that included normalization of weight and eating related psychopathology.

RESULTS

Achieving a body weight of 95.2% of expected body weight by EOT is the best predictor of recovery for adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN). For adults with AN, the most efficient predictor of weight recovery (BMI > 19) was weight gain to greater than 85.8% of ideal body weight. In addition, for adults with AN, the most efficient predictor of psychological recovery was achievement of an eating disorder examination (EDE) weight concerns score below 1.8. The best predictor of recovery for adults with Bulimia Nervosa (BN) was a frequency of compensatory behaviors less than two times a month. For adolescents with BN, abstinence from purging and reduction in the EDE restraint score of more than 3.4 from baseline to EOT were good predictors of recovery. For adults with binge eating disorder, reduction of the Global EDE score to within the normal range (<1.58) was the best predictor of recovery.

DISCUSSION

The relationship between EOT response and recovery remains understudied. Utilizing a transdiagnostic definition of recovery, no uniform predictors were identified across all eating disorder diagnostic groups.

The overlap between binge eating disorder and substance use disorders: Diagnosis and neurobiology

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a relatively common condition, especially in young adult females, and is characterized by chronic over-consumption of food resulting in embarrassment, distress, and potential health problems. It is formally included as a disorder in DSM-5 for the first time, an acknowledgement to its debilitating nature. This article explores the overlap between binge eating disorder and substance use disorders (SUD).

METHODS

The bibliographic search was a computerized screen of PubMed databases from January 1990 to the present. Binge eating disorder, substance use disorder, binging, obesity, food addiction, comorbidity, dopamine, opioid, serotonin, glutamate, and pharmacological treatment were the keywords used in searching.

RESULTS

BED shares similar phenomenology to SUD, including significant urges to engage in binging episodes, resulting in distress and impairment. Similar neurobiological pathways are found in both BED and SUD and medications based on similar neurobiology have been examined for both disorders. A subset of individuals with BED may have a "food addiction", but there is no clinical agreement on the meaning of "food addiction". Exploring the relationship between BED and obesity may also shed light on the extent to which BED can be viewed as an addiction.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, nascent research regarding BED and SUD suggests an overlap between these disorders, but there are discrepancies between these two disorders that need further exploration.

Pharmacological and psychosocial management of mental, neurological and substance use disorders in low- and middle-income countries: issues and current strategies

Mental, neurological, and substance use disorders (MNS) are among the largest sources of medical disability in the world, surpassing both cardiovascular disease and cancer. The picture is not different in low- and middle-income countries (LAMIC) where the relative morbidity associated with MNS is increasing, as a consequence of improvement in general health indicators and longevity. However, 80 % of individuals with MNS live in LAMIC but only close to 20 % of cases receive some sort of treatment. The main aim of this article is to provide non-specialist health workers in LAMIC with an accessible guide to the affordable essential psychotropics and psychosocial interventions which are proven to be cost effective for treating the main MNS. The MNS discussed in this article were selected on the basis of burden, following the key priority conditions selected by the Mental Health Action Programme (mhGAP) developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) (anxiety, stress-related and bodily distress disorders; depression and bipolar disorder; schizophrenia; alcohol and drug addiction; and epilepsy), with the addition of eating disorders, because of their emergent trend in middle-income countries. We review best evidence-based clinical practice in these areas, with a focus on drugs from the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines and the psychosocial interventions available in LAMIC for the management of these conditions in primary care. We do this by reviewing guidelines developed by prestigious professional associations and government agencies, clinical trials conducted in LAMIC and systematic reviews (including Cochrane reviews) identified from the main international literature databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO). In summary, it can be concluded that the availability and use of the psychotropics on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines in LAMIC, plus an array of psychosocial interventions, can represent a cost-effective way to expand treatment of most MNS. The translation of these findings into policies can be achieved by relatively low supplementary funding, and limited effort engendered by governments and policy makers in LAMIC.