[Management of comorbid bipolar disorder and alcohol dependence].

Recent studies confirm the clear association between bipolar disorders and alcohol abuse and dependence. Lifetime prevalence of disorders associated with alcohol abuse or dependence appears to be 3 to 4 times higher in patients with bipolar disorders than in the general population. Lifetime prevalence of mood disorders in alcohol-dependent subjects is approximately 10 times higher than in the general population. Despite the strength of this association, there is little information about specific management that takes into account both disorders and their interaction. One study shows that valproate may reduce excessive alcohol consumption in bipolar alcohol-dependent patients, especially because of its stabilizing and anticonvulsant effects. Based on this study, the American Psychiatry Association (APA) recently suggested the use of valproate in the treatment of patients with comorbid bipolar disorder and alcohol dependence.