Alcohol-induced Bipolar Disorder

Alcohol-induced bipolar disorder manifests as manic, hypomanic, or mixed mood episodes triggered by alcohol intoxication or withdrawal. Etiological mechanisms involve disruption of dopaminergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission, as well as alcohol-related sleep disruption. Clinically, patients demonstrate elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, impulsivity, distractibility, and impaired judgment. Diagnosis requires temporal correlation with alcohol use and exclusion of primary bipolar disorder. Management includes alcohol cessation, symptomatic treatment with mood stabilizers or antipsychotics during acute episodes, and psychosocial support. Prognosis is variable, with early intervention and abstinence improving long-term outcomes.