The selectivity of inclusion and exclusion criteria in bulimia nervosa treatment studies

Objective: To examine the rates of exclusion and inclusion in various research studies for a series of 51 treatment-seeking patients. Method: The inclusion and exclusion criteria employed in a sample of 41 studies were applied to a series of 51 treatment-seeking bulimia nervosa patients. Results: Of the sample of 51, 11, (21.6%) would have been excluded from 16 (39%) of the studies because of an age greater than 30; 13 (32%) of the studies would have excluded 8 (16%) of our patients because of weight > 110% ideal body weight. Thirteen (26%) would have been excluded from 22 (54%) of the studies because of active psychotropic drug use, despite the lack of response. Discussion: Some of the patients who may be most difficult to work with may be excluded from treatment studies.