Implications of alcoholism in post-bariatric patients: an analysis of compulsive behaviors

Abstract

Objective: To verify the relationship between alcoholism in post-bariatric surgery patients, its implications, and risk factors. Methods: An integrative literature review was conducted by searching the LILACS, PUBMED, and LIVIVO databases, using the descriptors “alcoholism” and “bariatric surgery” in articles published between 2014 and 2024, in Portuguese and English. Thirteen articles analyzing changes in alcohol consumption patterns after bariatric surgery were selected. Results: The analysis revealed that 61.53% of the studies reported an increase in alcohol consumption postoperatively, 46.15% indicated an increase in alcohol sensitivity, 15.38% observed a decrease in consumption, and 7.69% presented inconclusive data. The Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) technique was most associated with increased alcohol consumption. The main identified risk factors were a previous history of alcohol use, mental disorders, male gender, and family-related factors. Final considerations: The relationship between bariatric surgery and alcoholism is complex and multifactorial, requiring long-term psychological and medical follow-up. There is a reinforced need for additional long-term studies with diverse methodologies to deepen the understanding of this phenomenon and to develop effective prevention and intervention strategies.