Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Bulimia Nervosa

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa, commonly called bulimia, is a serious, potentially life-threatening eating disorder.

Insight:

• People with bulimia may secretly binge and eat large amounts of food and then purge.
• Patients may use different methods to get rid of the calories and prevent weight gain, such as self-inducing vomiting on a regular basis, misuse of laxatives, weight loss supplements, diuretics or enemas, strict dieting, or excessive exercise routines.
• Symptoms include being overly pre-occupied with body shape and weight; living in fear of gaining weight; eating large amounts of food and forcing vomiting; using laxatives, diuretics, or enemas; fasting; restricting calories; and using dietary supplements or herbal products to lose weight.
• Risk factors include people focused on dieting, patients with family history, or people with psychological and mental disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
• Treatment options would include coping and support, learning about bulimia, getting the right nutrition, being cautious with exercise, dietary supplements and herbs.

Sources:

Bulimia nervosa - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic