Usually, the family is asked to help in the treatment, which may include psychotherapy, nutrition counseling, behavior modification, and self-help groups. Therapy often lasts a year or more-on an outpatient basis unless life-threatening physical symptoms or severe psychological problems require hospitalization. If there is deterioration or no response to therapy, the patient, (or parent or other advocate), may want to talk to the health professional about the plan of treatment.
There are no drugs approved specifically for bulimia or anorexia, but several, including some antidepressants, are being investigated for this use.
If you think your teenager has bulimia, point out in a caring, nonjudgmental way the behavior you have observed. Take them to their doctor and/or therapist. Encourage your teenager to work with their doctors and therapists. Most of all, be there to support them.
Research information from the FDA.
