It’s common for people to occasionally overeat, but binge eating disorder involves regularly consuming large quantities of food quickly while feeling a lack of control. These episodes occur at least once a week for a period of three months or more.

Although there is no cure for binge eating disorder and it may become a long-term condition, several effective treatment options can help manage it. Treatment focuses on changing harmful eating habits, as well as the thoughts and emotions that contribute to binge eating.

Psychotherapy is typically the first choice for treatment. In some cases, medication, behavioral weight management, or intuitive eating practices are also used. While relapse can happen, many people experience significant improvement or successfully manage the condition through treatment.

Therapy

cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
CBT helps individuals recognize how their thoughts and feelings influence behaviors. For binge eating disorder, this therapy promotes healthy eating patterns, increases awareness around eating habits, and encourages strategies for self-regulation and problem-solving.

interpersonal therapy
This form of therapy focuses on understanding how interpersonal issues—such as low self-esteem or perfectionism—may trigger binge episodes. The goal is to recognize these triggers and improve relationships, which in turn helps reduce disordered eating behaviors.

dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
DBT teaches skills for emotional regulation and mindfulness. Individuals learn to better manage emotions that lead to binge eating and develop healthier coping strategies.

Medications

Some individuals benefit from medications that address both binge-related behaviors and any underlying mental health concerns. Medications are often prescribed after therapy has been initiated or in combination with therapeutic treatment.

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)
Vyvanse is the first medication approved by the FDA specifically for binge eating disorder. As a central nervous system stimulant, it helps reduce appetite. However, it must be used cautiously as it may be habit-forming. Common side effects include dry mouth, insomnia, increased heart rate, jitteriness, and constipation.

antidepressants
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used off-label to treat binge eating disorder. Examples include Zoloft, Prozac, Lexapro, Celexa, and Luvox. These medications can help regulate mood and reduce binge urges. Side effects may include nausea, fatigue, weight gain, and reduced libido.

anti-seizure medications
Topiramate, an anti-seizure medication sold under names like Eprontia and Topamax, is sometimes prescribed off-label. It may help reduce binge eating by decreasing appetite. Side effects can include numbness, nausea, dizziness, memory problems, and anxiety.

Behavioral Weight Loss

Behavioral weight loss strategies aim to help individuals reduce binge eating episodes and promote moderate weight loss. These approaches include increasing physical activity, focusing on nutritious food choices, and lowering calorie intake.

While helpful for some, this method may worsen body image concerns or trigger additional stress and binge episodes for others. The effectiveness of this treatment can vary widely based on personal response and psychological factors.

Intuitive Eating

Many individuals find relief through intuitive eating, which encourages listening to internal hunger and fullness cues. By only eating when hungry and stopping when full, people become more in tune with their body's needs.

This approach promotes body positivity and shifts focus away from weight toward feeling healthy and satisfied. Intuitive eating can reduce stress related to food and body image and help individuals regain a healthy relationship with eating.

Prognosis

Binge eating disorder may not be immediately life-threatening, but it can lead to serious long-term complications if untreated. These include significant weight gain, metabolic issues like type 2 diabetes, heart conditions, and some cancers.

People with this condition are also more prone to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Additional issues such as sleep disorders, digestive problems, and joint or muscle pain may also develop. In some cases, untreated binge eating can lead to other eating disorders or substance abuse.

Fortunately, with treatment, individuals can regain control. Some may remain symptom-free, while others may experience occasional relapses that respond well to renewed treatment.

Living With and Managing Binge Eating Disorder

Living with binge eating disorder can be a long-term challenge, but support is essential for effective management. This support may come from therapists, healthcare providers, family, friends, or peers who understand the experience.

A well-rounded treatment plan may include a care team consisting of a primary doctor, psychiatrist, dietitian, and counselor, working alongside the individual’s support network.

Lifestyle changes alone often aren’t enough to treat the condition, but they can help support recovery. Healthy habits that support management include:

  • Engaging in regular physical activity

  • Managing stress effectively

  • Eating regularly and avoiding skipped meals

  • Prioritizing well-balanced, satisfying meals

  • Identifying and addressing binge triggers

  • Recognizing early signs of relapse