THE FLUOXETINE TREATMENT OF LOW-WEIGHT, CHRONIC BULIMIA-NERVOSA

Ten low-weight (mean, 87.8% of ideal), chronic bulimic patients, seven of whom were previously unsuccessfully treated with antidepressant drugs, received fluoxetine 80 mg/day for 3 months. Endpoint analysis showed a significant decrease in bulimic episodes (p = 0.01), vomiting frequency (p < 0.05), and depression scores (Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, p < 0.04; Beck Depression Inventory, p = 0.05; Hopkins Symptom Checklist-90 depression subscale, p < 0.05). i addition, trait anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory trait: P < 0.002), obsessive symptoms (Leyton Obsessional Inventory symptom: P = 0.01; Symptom Checklist-90 obsessive-compulsive disorders subscale: P= 0.02), and traits (Leyton Obsessional Inventory trait: P = 0.005) also decreased significantly. There was no change in state anxiety or in Leyton Obsessional Inventory interference and resistance scores. There was no significant increase in weight. Two patients were in remission, two were much improved, two improved, and four showed no change. Side effects were minimal. There were no dropouts. © 1990 by Williams & Wilkins Co.