Open J Psychiatry Allied Sci. 2025 Dec 1. Epub ahead of print.

Cognitive functions among bipolar affective disorder patients with and without comorbid alcohol dependence syndrome.

Mondal SK, Nath K, Das H, Bhattacharya A.

Abstract

Background: A complex relationship exists between Bipolar Affective Disorder and comorbid Alcohol dependence. This has crucial clinical implications such as increase in the frequency and severity of episodes of bipolar illness and also increased risk of suicide. Both Bipolar Affective Disorder and Alcohol Dependence syndrome are characterised by cognitive impairments with both domains of memory and executive function being adversely affected. Aim: The current study aims to explore the deleterious effect of comorbid Alcohol dependence in Bipolar Affective Disorder on cognitive functions. Methods: A total of 140 patients (70 having BPAD with Alcohol dependence syndrome and 70 having BPAD without Alcohol dependence syndrome) were included in this study and their cognitive functions were assessed. Results: Patients with both BPAD and ADS have generally poorer cognitive function compared to those with BPAD only, especially in areas of mental flexibility, programming, and inhibitory control. Overall frontal lobe function is more impaired in BPAD patients with alcohol dependence. Cognitive functions like processing speed and mental adaptability are more adversely affected by alcohol dependence in BPAD patients. Conclusion: The current study highlights the intriguing correlation between BPAD and Alcohol dependence which has significant implications for clinical practice and future research.

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