Examining Common Substrates of Eating and Alcohol Use Disorders

Completed

Conditions studied: Bulimia Nervosa, Alcohol Use Disorders

In brief

A substantial percentage of individuals with bulimia nervosa (BN) also meet criteria for a co-occurring substance use disorder, such as alcohol abuse or dependence; however, research examining this sub-group of patients with BN is limited. Understanding characteristics common to both eating and alcohol use disorders may enhance understanding of the mechanisms that could contribute to the co-occurrence and perpetuation of these disorders. Individuals with BN and alcohol use disorders appear to share some behavioral traits, and therefore, the primary aim of the current study is to compare patients with BN with and without an alcohol use disorder and normal controls on measures assessing an individual's mood and ability to perform certain tasks. Participants will be asked to complete computer-administered and paper-and-pencil assessments and two laboratory test meals on separate days. By probing the underpinnings of BN and alcohol use disorders, the investigators can determine whether these disorders have a shared diathesis, which will lay an essential foundation for future research to examine biological and genetic correlates of these disorders. Finally, as little is known about the treatment of patients with BN and a co-occurring alcohol use disorder, an exploratory aim of the current study is evaluate the suitability and efficacy of a 20-session cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) addressing both bulimic symptoms and alcohol use.

Key facts

Study ID

NCT01172210

Run by

New York State Psychiatric Institute

People needed

61

Starts

2009-07-01

Expected to finish

2014-06-01

Last updated by the study team

2014-08-21

Who can join

Age: 18 and older, up to 45. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: accepted.

You may qualify if…

• Age 18-45
• Diagnosis of bulimia nervosa with or without a co-occurring alcohol use disorder
• English speaking
• Weight above 80% of ideal

You may not qualify if…

• Other significant psychiatric conditions requiring treatment or a significant medical condition
• Pregnancy
• Current use of psychotropic medication
• History of neurological disorder (e.g., dementia, stroke seizure)
• Food allergy to items in the lunch buffet
• Positive urine drug screen
• Current or post eating disorder diagnosis or history of binge eating or vomiting
• Current or past alcohol or substance abuse or dependence

Where it is running

• New York State Psychiatric Institute — New York, New York, United States

Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov

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