Changes in Alcohol Use after Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: Predictors and Mechanisms

Valentina Ivezaj, Stephen C. Benoit, Jon Davis, Scott Engel, Celia Lloret-Linares, James E. Mitchell, M. Yanina Pepino, Ann M. Rogers, Kristine Steffen, Stephanie Sogg

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Purpose of Review: This review synthesized the literature on predictors and mechanisms of post-bariatric alcohol problems, in order to guide future research on prevention and treatment targets. Recent Findings: Consistent evidence suggests an elevated risk of developing problems with alcohol following bariatric surgery. While there is a paucity of empirical data on predictors of problematic alcohol use after bariatric surgery, being male, a younger age, smoking, regular alcohol consumption, pre-surgical alcohol use disorder, and a lower sense of belonging have predicted alcohol misuse post-operatively. This review synthesizes potential mechanisms including specific bariatric surgical procedures, peptides and reinforcement/reward pathways, pharmacokinetics, and genetic influences. Finally, potential misperceptions regarding mechanisms are explored. Summary: Certain bariatric procedures elevate the risk of alcohol misuse post-operatively. Future research should serve to elucidate the complexities of reward signaling, genetically mediated mechanisms, and pharmacokinetics in relation to alcohol use across gender and developmental period by surgery type.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number85
JournalCurrent Psychiatry Reports
Volume21
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 1 2019

Keywords

  • Alcohol
  • Alcohol use disorder
  • Bariatric surgery
  • Obesity
  • Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
  • Sleeve gastrectomy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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