Effectiveness of the Maudsley Model of Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults: A systematic review.

Background: Maudsley Model of Anorexia nervosa (AN) Treatment for Adults (MANTRA) is recommended by NICE for the treatment of adults with AN. However, despite this fact, the approach remains relatively understudied. The aim of this study was to systematically update the research evidence regarding the use of the MANTRA in the treatment of Eating Disorders (ED). Method: The databases used were Web of Science, Scopus, and PsycInfo, including studies up to 31 May 2023. PRISMA guidelines were followed, and Cochrane tools were used to assess the risk of bias. The search focused on identifying published articles that discussed the usefulness of MANTRA as a component of treatment for ED, following PICO criteria. Results: Nine studies spanning the period from 2011 to 2023 were included. Findings suggested that MANTRA was effective in improving body mass index (BMI), eating symptomatology and emotional state. There were generally no significant differences compared to other treatment conditions. Limitations to interpreting this systematic review include the methodological quality of included studies and the elevated risk of bias. Conclusions: This review was the first to examine the effectiveness of MANTRA. The results indicate that MANTRA has shown effectiveness similar to other treatments for adults AN patients in addressing key clinical variables. It has been used in different populations (adolescents, males, inpatients) and formats (group, online) However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness. Highlights: This systematic review is based on a rigorous methodology, following the recommendations of the PRISMA and PICOS guide to guarantee its rigour. It adopts a critical and up‐to‐date perspective to analyse the extensive number of studies that provide evidence on this programme.MANTRA appears to be as effective as CBT and SSCM for anorexia nervosa, showing favourable results in body mass index (BMI), eating disorder symptomatology and emotional state. More research is needed to establish its effectiveness in addressing the interpersonal and cognitive factors for which it was also designed.The adaptability of MANTRA is highlighted. It has been used in adolescent population, in group and online format, with inpatients and in males. However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]