Lithium discontinuation: withdrawal or relapse?
The authors review the studies on discontinuation of lithium therapy in terms of subsequent relapse or possible withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms following lithium discontinuation including heightened anxiety, sleep disturbances and irritability remain controversial. Relapse of the primary illness following lithium discontinuation is a well documented serious complication.
D000818:Animals; D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy; D006801:Humans; D008094:Lithium / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000502:physiology; D051381:Rats; D012008:Recurrence; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000209:etiology*
D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents; D008094:Lithium