Behavioral and Pharmacologic Treatment of Binge Eating and Obesity: Acute Treatment

This trial is testing treatments for binge eating disorder among people with obesity. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive a medication (Naltrexone + Bupropion), which is FDA-approved for weight loss, AND/OR behavioral weight loss treatment (weekly 1-hour meetings with a clinician). Treatments occur in two stages, each of which lasts 4 months (i.e., 8 months total for treatment). The entire study from start to finish is about 20 months). Payment is $100 at each of the longer in-person assessment visits (at 4 months, 4 months later, 6 months later, and 12 months later.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Binge eating disorder (full criteria as described in the American Psychiatric Association Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition)
• BMI 27-30 with a controlled obesity-related co-morbidity; or BMI ≥ 30 and <50;
• Available for the duration of the treatment and follow-up (20 months);
• Read, comprehend, and write English at a sufficient level to complete study-related materials;
• Able to travel to study location (New Haven, CT) for weekly visits.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Currently taking anti-depressant medications;
• Currently taking opioid pain medications or drugs;
• Currently taking medications that influence eating/weight;
• History of seizures;
• Current substance use disorder or other severe psychiatric disturbance (e.g., suicidality);
• Past or current anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa;
• Pregnant or breastfeeding;
• Medical status judged by study physician as contraindication.