Background: Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic psychiatric illness associated with high rates of medical comorbidities, among which metabolic syndrome (MetS) is particularly prevalent and consequential. Affecting nearly half of individuals with BD, MetS compounds the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and premature mortality, while also undermining psychiatric stability and cognitive functioning. Despite these outcomes, metabolic health remains underrecognized and undertreated in psychiatric care.
Objective : This narrative review aims to examine the bidirectional relationship between BD and metabolic syndrome and to highlight multidisciplinary strategies for metabolic monitoring and clinical management in this population.
Methods : A targeted literature search was conducted using PubMed (2000–2025), covering studies on the epidemiology, behavioral and biological mechanisms, pharmacologic and lifestyle interventions, and clinical care integration related to BD and MetS. The review followed established quality guidance for narrative synthesis and was structured using the Population–Concept–Context framework to improve transparency in the selection and synthesis of the literature.
Results : The comorbidity between BD and MetS is shaped by multiple interacting factors, including shared behavioral risk factors, inflammatory pathways, hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation, and the metabolic effects of psychotropic medications. While pharmacological treatment remains essential for mood stabilization, systematic metabolic monitoring is crucial to mitigate treatment-related risks. Evidence supports the central role of lifestyle interventions, including nutritional strategies and physical activity in reducing cardiometabolic risk. Emerging therapeutic approaches such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and ketogenic metabolic therapy show potential benefits but require careful clinical integration. In selected individuals with severe or refractory obesity, bariatric surgery may be considered. Therapeutic patient education (TPE) represents the cornerstone of care by supporting self-management, treatment adherence, and shared decision-making.
Conclusion : Addressing the dual burden of BD and MetS requires a multidisciplinary and patient-centered approach integrating metabolic monitoring, lifestyle interventions, pharmacological strategies, and therapeutic patient education. Strengthening collaboration between psychiatry, primary care, and metabolic specialists is essential to reduce cardiometabolic risk and improve long-term health outcomes in this vulnerable population.
