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

Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 1999 Mar-Apr;3(2):63-9.

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.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

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

Substances

  • Antimanic Agents
  • Lithium