The effectiveness of internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy for those with bulimic symptoms: a systematic review

Abstract Objective This review looked at internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) as a possible treatment for patients with bulimic symptoms. CBT has been established as an effective treatment; however, waiting lists lead to delayed initiation of treatment. iCBT is a possible delivery...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Alexandra Pittock, Laura Hodges, Stephen M. Lawrie
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2018-10-01
Series:BMC Research Notes
Subjects:
Online Access:http://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13104-018-3843-2
Description
Summary:Abstract Objective This review looked at internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) as a possible treatment for patients with bulimic symptoms. CBT has been established as an effective treatment; however, waiting lists lead to delayed initiation of treatment. iCBT is a possible delivery method to combat this. Medline, EMBASE and PsycInfo were searched for controlled trials using iCBT as a treatment for patients with bulimia nervosa (BN), subthreshold BN or ‘eating disorders not otherwise specified’ with bulimic characteristics (EDNOS-BN). The literature search returned 482 papers. 5 met the review criteria and were compared in characteristics, methodological quality and outcomes. Outcomes were analysed by calculation of effect sizes; iCBT was evaluated on reduction in binge eating and purging post treatment and at follow-up. Results Participants were mostly female with an average age range of 23.7–31 years. 4 studies demonstrated good methodological quality. 1 did not report all of the outcome data, increasing the likelihood of bias. Only 1 study showed widespread benefit over waiting list controls. iCBT was shown to reduce behaviours but was not found to be superior to bibliotherapy or waiting list. Further large-scale studies are required to make conclusive recommendations.
ISSN:1756-0500