Improving digital health tools for treating bulimia and binge eating disorders

Optimizing Digital Health Technologies to Improve Therapeutic Skill Use and Acquisition

Not applicable Interventional Drexel University · NCT05473013

This study is testing different ways to use digital tools alongside therapy to see which methods help people with bulimia and binge eating disorder the most.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment264 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorDrexel University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT05473013 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effects of different self-monitoring and micro-intervention strategies combined with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for individuals with bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder. Participants will be assigned to one of six treatment conditions that vary in the complexity of self-monitoring and micro-interventions. The study will assess the optimal complexity of these interventions on eating pathology at various follow-up points. Additionally, it will explore how these complexities interact with participants' baseline self-regulation deficits to influence treatment outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals with bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder who have experienced significant loss of control episodes and meet specific eligibility criteria.

Not a fit: Patients who are currently receiving treatment for an eating disorder or have severe mental health issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance treatment effectiveness for patients with bulimia and binge eating disorders by optimizing digital health interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using digital health interventions for eating disorders, but this specific combination of approaches is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Have experienced 12 or more loss of control episodes within the previous 3 months
2. Have a BMI at or above 18.5
3. Are located in the US and willing/able to participate in treatment and assessments
4. Are able to give consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Are unable to fluently speak, write and read English
2. Have a BMI below 18.5
3. Are already receiving treatment for an eating disorder
4. Require immediate treatment for medical complications as a result of eating disorder symptoms
5. Have a mental handicap, or are experiencing other severe psychopathology that would limit the participants' ability to comply with the demands of the current study (e.g. severe depression with suicidal intent, active psychotic disorder, severe substance use)
6. Are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant

Where this trial is running

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Bulimia NervosaBulimiaBinge EatingBinge-Eating DisorderEating disordersBinge Eating DisorderCognitive Behavioral Treatment for Eating DisordersDigital health technologies
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.