Lithium safety in the prophylaxis of bipolar disorders: a study with plasma levels.

Abstract

From many decades efficacy of lithium salts, as mood stabilizers, has been largely recognized, but their tolerability, in particular during intermediate or long-term treatments is still discussed. The most frequently described side effects can affect several organs. Aim of the study was to evaluate lithium carbonate tolerability after a "brief" (1 month-4 years), "intermediate" (5-9 years) and "longterm" (10-21 years) treatment of patients affected by Bipolar Disorders (BD). 27 patients (14 males, 13 females), aged from 20 to 78 years (mean 49.03 years +/- 14.61 SD), affected by BD, type I, according to DSM IV criteria were included into the study. Our data suggest a good tolerability of lithium salts without significant differences among the three different periods of treatment.

• Authors: M C Mauri, V Laini, M E Scalvini, L S Volonteri, M S Ferrari, G Panza
• Journal: European review for medical and pharmacological sciences (Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci) 1999 Mar-Apr Vol. 3 Issue 2 Pg. 63-9 ISSN: 1128-3602 [Print] Italy
• PMID: 10827806 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Antimanic Agents
• Lithium

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• Antimanic Agents (adverse effects, blood, therapeutic use)
• Bipolar Disorder (prevention & control, psychology)
• Female
• Humans
• Lithium (adverse effects, blood, therapeutic use)
• Male
• Middle Aged