gastric bypass-addiction transfer-alcohol

Question
Hello, My 42 year old "NORMAL GIRL" sister had gastric bypass surgery 2 years ago and lost about 110 lbs. Since then, this former social drinker has become a hard core alcoholic. She has been in 3, month long rehab sessions, spent a night in jail with a DUI, has attempted suicide twice. She is currently in a psych. ward in a Virginia hospital after taking the whole bottle of Zoloft pills and washing them down with beer. Is there anyone that could help my sister? We are desperate. Thank you.

Answer
Maryjane,
I am really sorry to hear about your sister's situation.  Alcohol addition seems to be an uncommon but a real occurrence related to gastric bypass surgery.

I regret to report that I don't have any special ideas beyond standard psychiatric therapy and support.

If she does not make progress after some time, it is conceivable that reversing the gastric bypass might reduce the physiologic impact of the alcohol, but that would not help her depression and other physical mental issues.

With my best wishes,
Dr JP

1. Prev:Gastric bypass- addiction transfer-alcohol
2. Next:VSG and scar tissue from previous lap band