A study of alcohol dependence in obsessive-compulsive disorder

To investigate demographic and clinical correlates of alcohol dependence in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

A total of 1222 OCD-affected adults were included in the analyses. We compared demographic and clinical features in those with and without a history of alcohol dependence and used logistic regression models to assess the relationship between alcohol dependence and history of OCD treatment.

One hundred sixty-four participants (13%) had a lifetime history of DSM-IV alcohol dependence. Those with alcohol dependence were older and less likely to have a college degree. The lifetime prevalences of DSM-IV mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bulimia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance dependence were significantly greater in those with alcohol dependence. Those with alcohol dependence were significantly less likely to have received treatment with serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs/SSRIs) and, if they had received treatment, less likely to report a good treatment response.

Alcohol dependence is relatively prevalent in individuals with OCD and is associated with poorer response to SSRI treatment. The findings suggest the clinical importance of evaluating alcohol dependence in OCD patients and considering its potential impact on treatment response.