Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder defined by repeated cycles of uncontrolled binge eating followed by compensatory behaviours, self-induced vomiting, laxative use, or excessive exercise, aimed at undoing perceived overeating. It differs from anorexia in that body weight is often within a normal range, which means the condition can go unrecognised for years.
Medicine used to treat Bulimia Nervosa
Recognising the pattern
The core feature is a loss-of-control feeling during eating episodes, followed by guilt and a strong urge to compensate. Physical signs include tooth enamel erosion, swollen cheek glands, and knuckle calluses. Mood shifts, secrecy around food, and frequent trips to the bathroom after meals are common behavioural signs. In East and Southeast Asia, where social pressure around body image and food is especially pronounced, bulimia often goes unreported due to stigma.
How it is managed
Cognitive behavioural therapy is the most evidence-based treatment. Medication is often used alongside it: fluoxetine is the best-studied option and sits within the broader class of antidepressants shown to reduce binge frequency. The two approaches together tend to produce better outcomes than either alone.
If you or someone close to you is struggling, speaking with a doctor or mental health professional is the right first step. For immediate support, international crisis lines such as Befrienders Worldwide (befrienders.org) cover many Asian countries.