Effects of lithium: A Synthesis of Findings from 20 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

Lithium has been widely recognized for its neuropsychiatric benefits. 20 explored the neuropsychiatric health effects of low-dose lithium (LDL) interventions in a systematic review. It suggested that LDL interventions could be beneficial in various neuropsychiatric conditions. The cognitive effects of lithium were examined in a meta-analysis. 14 This research revealed that lithium can influence cognitive function, although its effects are mixed and warrant further investigation. A double-blind study found that decreasing lithium dosage reduced affective morbidity and side effects in patients with bipolar disorder. 7 A qualitative analysis of the literature suggested that lithium can negatively impact memory and information processing speed in bipolar disorder patients. 11 Research on normal subjects showed that lithium carbonate can cause performance deficits in cognitive and motor functions. 3 The Oxford Lithium Trial, a randomized controlled trial protocol, aims to identify early clinical, neurocognitive, and biological effects of lithium carbonate in bipolar disorder. 18 Research on normal subjects found that lithium carbonate can significantly alter mood and affect, leading to lethargy, dysphoria, and mental confusion. 2 A double-blind lithium reduction study in patients receiving prophylactic lithium revealed that lower lithium dosage correlated with fewer side effects, including tremor and weight gain. 5 Research on healthy volunteers showed that lithium chloride can have acute effects on well-being, skin conductance, and plasma calcium levels, as well as chronic effects on mood, memory, and EEG activity. 1 A double-blind study compared the side-effect profiles of daily and alternate-day lithium carbonate dosing schedules in patients with manic-depressive disorder. 10 A systematic review explored the benefits of lithium in trace or low doses for dementia prevention and other behavioral or medical benefits. 17 A double-blind crossover study found no short-term changes in cognitive performance or mood after single doses of lithium carbonate or lithium-sulfate in healthy volunteers. 9 A systematic review summarized the potential long-term side effects of lithium treatment, highlighting its impact on renal and thyroid function. 16 A review discussed the increasing evidence base for lithium in mood disorders while also noting the decline in its use. 13 A placebo-controlled study with former drug users showed that lithium supplementation had a mood-improving and -stabilizing effect. 8 A critical assessment of a systematic review and meta-analysis on the risks and side effects of lithium concluded that lithium treatment is safe when clinicians follow established recommendations. 15 A double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that lithium had mild and selective effects on learning in healthy subjects. 12 A randomized clinical trial investigated the clinical and biological effects of long-term lithium treatment in older adults with amnestic mild cognitive impairment. 19 A double-blind cross-over study with healthy volunteers found that lithium carbonate can influence mood, but its effects can vary significantly across individuals. 4 Research on healthy volunteers found that lithium treatment can disrupt memory-learning processes during memory retrieval. 6

Benefits and Risks

Benefits Summary

Numerous studies have shown lithium's effectiveness in stabilizing mood and treating bipolar disorder. 13 、 15 、 20 、 8 Additionally, research suggests that lithium can be beneficial in preventing dementia. 17 Low-dose lithium offers a potential therapeutic approach with fewer side effects. 7 、 5 However, lithium dosages should be carefully adjusted for each individual. 5

Risks Summary

Lithium can have adverse effects on the kidneys and thyroid. 16 、 15 It can also affect cognitive function. 14 、 11 、 3 、 6 Elderly patients are particularly susceptible to lithium's side effects. 5 High lithium doses can lead to toxicity. 15 Lithium use should be closely monitored by a healthcare professional.

Comparison Between Studies

Similarities Across Studies

Many studies consistently highlight lithium's efficacy in mood stabilization. 13 、 15 、 20 、 8 Additionally, numerous studies suggest that lithium can potentially impact cognitive function. 14 、 11 、 3 、 6 Moreover, a significant number of studies indicate the possibility of lithium influencing kidney and thyroid function. 16 、 15

Differences Across Studies

The impact of lithium on cognitive function varies depending on the study. 14 、 11 、 3 、 6 Similarly, the reported side effects of lithium differ across studies. 5 、 16 、 15 These discrepancies may be attributed to variations in study populations, research methodologies, and other factors.

Consistency and Discrepancies in Research Findings

A considerable amount of research consistently demonstrates lithium's effectiveness in treating bipolar disorder. 13 、 15 、 20 、 8 However, the effects of lithium on cognitive function and its side effects show inconsistencies across studies. 14 、 11 、 3 、 6 、 5 、 16 、 15 These contradictions could arise from differences in study populations, methodologies, and other variables.

Considerations for Real-World Application

While lithium has proven effective in treating bipolar disorder, its potential side effects should not be overlooked. 15 、 13 It is crucial to adhere to healthcare professional guidance and adjust lithium dosage based on individual needs. 5 Further research is necessary to gain a deeper understanding of lithium's effectiveness and side effects. 16 、 19

Limitations of Current Research

There are certain limitations to lithium research. For instance, many studies are conducted with small sample sizes. 5 、 1 Additionally, numerous studies focus on short-term effects, 9 、 1 necessitating further research to understand long-term effects.

Future Directions for Research

Long-term effects of lithium and its impact on cognitive function warrant further investigation. 16 、 19 A more thorough exploration of the relationship between lithium dosage and its effects is crucial. 5 、 7 Research is also necessary to elucidate the mechanisms underlying lithium's actions. 18

Conclusion

Lithium stands as a valuable medication for treating bipolar disorder, but its potential side effects must be acknowledged. 15 、 13 It is essential to follow healthcare provider guidance and adjust lithium dosage based on individual needs. 5 Further research is crucial to deepen our understanding of lithium's effectiveness and side effects. 16 、 19

Literature analysis of 20 papers
Positive Content
10
Neutral Content
2
Negative Content
8
Article Type
13
4
4
5
20
1.

Acute and chronic effects of lithium chloride on physiological and psychological measures in normals.

Author: KarniolI G, DaltonJ, LaderM H

Decreased well-being
Impaired memory
Increased calcium
Increased magnesium

Lithium chloride was found to decrease subjective well-being, skin conductance fluctuations, and increase plasma calcium in an acute experiment. In a chronic experiment, lithium caused subjective impairment, increased EEG slow waves, and a decrease in long-term memory.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Controlled Clinical TrialA clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of a treatment by comparing a group that receives the intervention with a group that receives a placebo or standard treatment.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

2.

The effect of lithium carbonate on affect, mood, and personality of normal subjects.

Author: JuddL L, HubbardB, JanowskyD S, HueyL Y, AttewellP A

Dysphoria
Lethargy
Mental confusion

Lithium carbonate induced substantial affect and mood changes in normal men. Lethargy, dysphoria, loss of interest in interacting with others and increased mental confusion were reported. No generalized effects were found on personality inventories.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.Research funding provided by US government agencies other than the Public Health Service.

Language : English

3.

The effect of lithium carbonate on the cognitive functions of normal subjects.

Author: JuddL L, HubbardB, JanowskyD S, HueyL Y, TakahashiK I

Performance deficits

Lithium carbonate induced performance deficits on cognitive and/or motor function tasks in normal men. No significant changes were observed on semantic creativity or aesthetic perception measures.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.Research funding provided by US government agencies other than the Public Health Service.

Language : English

4.

The effects of lithium carbonate on healthy volunteers: mood stabilization?

Author: CalilH M, ZwickerA P, KlepaczS

Dysphoric mood
Mood changes

Lithium treatment was associated with decreased mood scores but did not significantly change mood variability. The data suggest that lithium may induce dysphoric mood in some individuals.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

5.

The efficacy of low-dose lithium: clinical, psychological and biological correlates.

Author: Abou-SalehM T, CoppenA

Reduced side effects

Lithium dosage reduction was investigated in patients receiving prophylactic lithium treatment for bipolar disorder. Lower lithium dosage was associated with fewer side effects and lower TSH levels. However, elderly patients experienced greater morbidity upon lithium reduction.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

6.

Cognitive effects of lithium treatment in normal volunteers.

Author: WeingartnerH, RudorferM V, LinnoilaM

Attention difficulties
Concentration difficulties
Learning difficulties
Memory difficulties

Lithium can cause cognitive disruptions, particularly in memory-learning processes.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

7.

Decreasing lithium dosage reduces morbidity and side-effects during prophylaxis.

Author: CoppenA, Abou-SalehM, MillnP, BaileyJ, WoodK

Less side effects
Lower lithium levels
Reduced affective morbidity

Reducing lithium dosage in patients with affective disorders resulted in decreased affective morbidity, lower thyroid stimulating hormone levels, and reduced side effects. Sustained release lithium at a lower dose was more effective and produced fewer side effects than conventional dosages.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

8.

Effects of nutritional lithium supplementation on mood. A placebo-controlled study with former drug users.

Author: SchrauzerG N, de VroeyE

Mood improvement

Lithium supplementation at 400 micrograms/day for 4 weeks improved mood in former drug users. The mood test scores increased steadily in the lithium group, while the placebo group showed no consistent changes.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

9.

No short-term changes of cognitive performance and mood after single doses of two different lithium retard preparations.

Author: KolkA, KathmannN, GreilW

Memory impairment
Mood changes

A single dose of lithium carbonate or lithium sulfate did not cause significant cognitive impairment or mood changes in healthy volunteers within six hours of administration. This suggests that lithium-induced alterations of memory and mood develop gradually and are not immediate effects.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

10.

Double-blind comparison of the side-effect profiles of daily versus alternate-day dosing schedules in lithium maintenance treatment of manic-depressive disorder.

Author: JensenH V, DavidsenK, ToftegaardL, MellerupE T, PlengeP, AggernaesH, BjørumN

Diarrhea
Polydipsia
Polyuria

This study compared the side-effect profiles of daily and alternate-day lithium carbonate dosing schedules in manic-depressive patients. There was no significant difference in side effects between the two dosing schedules.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

11.

Lithium induced cognitive side-effects in bipolar disorder: a qualitative analysis and implications for daily practice.

Author: HonigA, ArtsB M, PondsR W, RiedelW J

Memory impairment
Slowed processing

Lithium had a negative effect on memory and speed of information processing, often without subjective complaints.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.

Language : English

12.

A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the effects of lithium on cognition in healthy subjects: mild and selective effects on learning.

Author: StipE, DufresneJ, LussierI, YathamL

Cognitive impairment

This study investigated the effects of lithium on cognitive function in healthy subjects. Lithium did not produce significant cognitive impairment in the study participants.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

13.

Lithium in mood disorders: increasing evidence base, declining use?

Author: YoungAllan H, HammondJudith M

Improved bipolar disorder treatment
Bipolar disorder

While knowledge about the benefits and side effects of lithium for treating bipolar disorder has increased, its use may be declining. Recent reviews confirm that lithium is effective for long-term treatment and reduces the risk of suicide. Psychiatrists should continue to use this effective treatment for bipolar disorder.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.

Language : English

14.

Effects of lithium on cognitive performance: a meta-analysis.

Author: WingoAliza P, WingoThomas S, HarveyPhilip D, BaldessariniRoss J

Cognitive impairment

This review assesses the reported effects of lithium, a mood stabilizer, on cognitive performance in patients with bipolar disorder.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

15.

[Side effects and risk profile of lithium: critical assessment of a systematic review and meta-analysis].

Author: BschorT, BauerM

Prevention of depressive episodes
Prevention of manic episodes
Hypothyroidism
Increased body weight
Renal failure

Lithium is the only drug with a strong recommendation for maintenance therapy in bipolar disorders, with proven efficacy for preventing both manic and depressive episodes. This comprehensive review of lithium's risks and side effects confirms its safety when used according to established guidelines. While renal failure is rare, regular monitoring is crucial, especially in patients with high lithium levels. Subclinical hypothyroidism is not an indication to stop lithium but requires thyroid hormone replacement. Lithium use during pregnancy requires careful consideration of both continuing and stopping the medication.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : German

16.

[Lithium treatment and potential long-term side effects: a systematic review of the literature].

Author: AlbertUmberto, De CoriDavid, BlenginoGiovanni, BogettoFilippo, MainaGiuseppe

Bipolar disorder treatment
Lithium side effects

Lithium is a common medication for bipolar disorder and is recommended as a first-line maintenance treatment by all guidelines. However, its long-term use can lead to side effects, making it challenging to implement the recommendations in practice. This study reviews the available literature on the potential long-term side effects of lithium.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : Italian

17.

Standard and trace-dose lithium: a systematic review of dementia prevention and other behavioral benefits.

Author: MauerSivan, VergneDerick, GhaemiS Nassir

Dementia prevention

Lithium in trace or low doses may have benefits in preventing dementia and other behavioral or medical conditions.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

18.

Oxford Lithium Trial (OxLith) of the early affective, cognitive, neural and biochemical effects of lithium carbonate in bipolar disorder: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.

Author: SaundersKate E A, CiprianiAndrea, RendellJennifer, AttenburrowMary-Jane, NelissenNatalie, BilderbeckAmy C, VasudevanSridhar R, ChurchillGrant, GoodwinGuy M, NobreAnna C, HarmerCatherine J, HarrisonPaul J, GeddesJohn R

Early lithium effects
Predicting therapeutic response

The Oxford Lithium Trial will assess the early effects of lithium treatment on clinical, neurocognitive and biological measures in patients with bipolar disorder and mood instability. The findings may be valuable for predicting subsequent therapeutic response or side effects and provide a potential signature for the rapid evaluation of novel mood stabilisers.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

19.

Clinical and biological effects of long-term lithium treatment in older adults with amnestic mild cognitive impairment: randomised clinical trial.

Author: ForlenzaOrestes V, RadanovicMárcia, TalibLeda L, GattazWagner F

Neurotrophic responses
Limited controlled data

Lithium has been shown to have neuroprotective effects in the brain, potentially helping treat or prevent dementia. While studies in bipolar disorder and Alzheimer's disease support this, more controlled data is needed to confirm its efficacy for dementia treatment.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

20.

Identifying the neuropsychiatric health effects of low-dose lithium interventions: A systematic review.

Author: StrawbridgeRebecca, Kerr-GaffneyJess, BessaGiulia, LoschiGiulia, FreitasHanna Luísa O, PiresHugo, CousinsDavid A, JuruenaMario F, YoungAllan H

Low-dose lithium
Neuropsychiatric benefits
Adverse effects
Therapeutic doses

Low-dose lithium has been shown to have neuropsychiatric benefits, prompting further investigation into its potential advantages over higher doses.

Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.Research funding provided by US government agencies other than the Public Health Service.

Language : English

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