Bulimia Nervosa 345
or symptoms prior to onset of their eating d isorder. OCD is described in some individuals
with anorexia nervosa, especially those with the restricting type. Alcohol use disorder and
other substance use disorders may also be co morbid with anorexia nervosa, especially
among those with the binge-eating/purging type.
Bulimia Nervosa
Diagnostic Criteria 307.51 (F50.2)
A. Recurrent episodes of binge eating. An episode of binge eating is characterized by
both of the following:
1. Eating, in a discrete period of time (e.g., within any 2-hour period), an amount of
food that is definitely larger than what most individuals would eat in a similar period
of time under similar circumstances.
2. A sense of lack of control over eating during the episode (e.g., a feeling that one
cannot stop eating or control what or how much one is eating).
B. Recurrent inappropriate compensatory behaviors in order to prevent weight gain, such
as self-induced vomiting; misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or other medications; fasting;
or excessive exercise.
C. The binge eating and inappropriate compensatory behaviors both occur, on average,
at least once a week for 3 months.
D. Self-evaluation is unduly influenced by body shape and weight.
E. The disturbance does not occur exclusively during episodes of anorexia nervosa.
Specify if:
In partial remission:  After full criteria for bulimia nervosa were previously met, some,
but not all, of the criteria have been met for a sustained period of time.
In full remission:  After full criteria for bulimia nervosa were previously met, none of
the criteria have been met for a sustained period of time.
Specify current severity: