Five studies reported across 13 publications were included in the review (n=356): four randomised controlled trials (RCTs; n=203); and one non-randomised (NRCT; n=153). Three of the studies were deemed to be methodologically weak and two moderate.
There was no significant difference in the overall Eating Disorder Inventory score or the Bulimia or Drive for Thinness subscales between internet programmes and waiting list controls post intervention or at follow-up. There was no significant difference in the overall Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire score, or the weight, shape, eating, or restraint subscales between internet programmes and waiting list controls post intervention, or the weight, shape, or restraint subscales at follow-up. No statistical heterogeneity was observed for these analyses. Exclusion of the non-randomised study did not impact on the overall pooled results. Results for secondary outcomes were reported.