Mini-review: Anomalous association between lithium data and lithium use

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Pharmacology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Lithium is recognized as a highly effective mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder maintenance treatment.
• It demonstrates significant efficacy in preventing manic and depressive episodes and augmenting antidepressants for treatment-resistant depression.
• Lithium also possesses potent antisuicidal properties, alongside antiviral, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the discrepancy between lithium's established therapeutic benefits and its declining worldwide usage.
• To challenge the negative perception of lithium as a toxic drug by highlighting its advantages and proper management strategies.
• To encourage wider adoption of lithium for mood disorder patients.

Main Methods:

• Mini-review of existing scientific literature and clinical data on lithium's efficacy and safety.
• Analysis of trends in lithium prescription rates globally.
• Examination of factors contributing to the decline in lithium use, including market competition and perceived toxicity.

Main Results:

• Lithium is superior to other mood stabilizers in preventing bipolar disorder recurrences and reducing suicide risk.
• Despite its benefits, lithium use has decreased due to the promotion of newer drugs and a negative perception of its side effects (thyroid, renal, cognitive).
• Recent research offers strategies to optimize lithium administration and manage side effects, supporting its clinical value.

Conclusions:

• Lithium's therapeutic advantages in mood stabilization, suicide prevention, and other areas are well-documented.
• Overcoming the negative perception and optimizing its long-term use are crucial for restoring lithium's place in psychiatric treatment.
• Facilitating broader access to lithium can benefit more patients suffering from mood disorders.