Bipolar disorder and addictions: the elephant in the room.

Stokes, Paul R A; Kalk, Nicola J; Young, Allan H · Br J Psychiatry · 2017

editorial · Level V

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Abstract

Addictions are highly prevalent in bipolar disorder and greatly affect clinical outcomes. In this editorial, we review the evidence that addictions are a key challenge in bipolar disorder, examine putative neurobiological mechanisms, and reflect on the limited clinical trial evidence base with suggestions for treatment strategies and further developments.

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