Relationship between neuropsychological performance and alcohol consumption in alcoholics.

Abstract

Cognitive performance in drug-free alcoholic patients (n = 95) within 7 days of their last drink was significantly predicted by chronic and recent drinking practices. Conceptually distinct cognitive functions were differentially influenced by various combinations of drinking variables. Consideration of curvilinear relationships enhanced the amount of variance explained, and it is suggested that certain patterns of consumption may accelerate the alcohol-induced decline of brain function.