Lithium pharmacokinetics

Lithium, in various forms, has been used in the treatment and prophylaxis of bipolar affective disorder since the mid-1960s. In the past 30-plus years, much has been learned regarding lithium's effects on the renal function, improved ways and forms of administering and monitoring serum lithium levels, the effect of mood state on lithium kinetics, and the influence of age and disease factors. Furthermore, the interaction of lithium with other psychotropics as well as with non-psychotropics, in particular, the diuretics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, has frequently become a source of concern. This review highlights current knowledge on these topics with a view toward future developments.