Managing Binge Eating Disorder in a Young Adolescent Female: Barriers to Treatment and Recommendations

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a behavioral disorder characterized by chronic and compulsive overeating. It is the most prevalent eating disorder in the USA, affecting almost 3% of the US population. In this study, we describe a case of BED in an adolescent Caucasian female who could not obtain specialized treatment because of financial constraints and saw a child and adolescent psychiatrist for medication management. Her treatment plan combined bupropion with family therapy and resulted in successful alleviation of her symptoms, allowing her to achieve a better quality of life. This case shows how pragmatism by PCPs can help manage patients who cannot obtain specialized care for their BED.