Imaging the Dopamine Systems in Bulimia Nervosa

Imaging the Dopamine Systems in Bulimia Nervosa

This study will use positron emission tomography imaging to investigate the dopamine systems in people with bulimia nervosa.

Inclusion Criteria:

Participants with BN:

• Meets DSM-IV criteria for BN
• Sufficiently medically and psychiatrically stable to participate in research

Health Control Participants:

• No current or past psychiatric illness
• Between 80% and 120% of ideal body weight

Exclusion Criteria:

All participants:

• Current use of psychotropic medication such as anti psychotics or antidepressants
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• history of substance abuse
• Significant medical illness
• High blood pressure (resting systolic blood pressure greater than 150mmHg and diastolic blood pressure greater that 90 mmHg)
• Current or lifetime history of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or other psychotic disorder as defined by DSM-IV
• Metal implants or paramagnetic objects contained within the body that may interfere with the MRI scan, as determined in consultation with a neuroradiologist and according to specified reference book guidelines
• Exposed to radiation in the workplace or has had a nuclear medicine procedure during the 1 year before study entry
• Previous adverse reaction to psycho stimulants