Comparison of lithium to second generation antipsychotics for the treatment of bipolar disorder in older veterans

Approximately 25% of all adults with bipolar disorder are over the age of 65. Literature in older age bipolar disorder is sparse and typically extrapolated from data in younger adults. This retrospective cohort study included patients 65-89 years of age with bipolar I or II disorder who were prescribed lithium or SGA treatment. Primary efficacy outcome was defined as time to discontinuation of treatment and numerous secondary safety outcomes were included such as adverse effects; lab changes; mental health related hospitalizations; and death. No difference was found between the lithium group and the SGA group in days until discontinuation.