title: Elevation of erythrocyte glycine levels during lithium treatment of affective disorders.
abstract: An elevation of erythrocyte (RBC) glycine was observed in a group of patients with bipolar affective disorder who were being treated with lithium (Li) carbonate. A maximal increase of 90% or more was generally attained after about 100 days of Li intake and was maintained for 2 years or longer. After 3 or more years of Li therapy, the RBC glycine had often returned to the normal range. Abrupt withdrawal of Li in such a case produced an immediate, dramatic, and paradoxical increase in RBC glycine which lasted for 100 days. Plasma glycine was not affected by Li.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000596:Amino Acids / Q000097:blood; D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy*; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004912:Erythrocytes / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000378:metabolism; D005260:Female; D005998:Glycine / Q000097:blood*; D006801:Humans; D008094:Lithium / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000097:blood / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000097:blood
chemical_list: D000596:Amino Acids; D008094:Lithium; D005998:Glycine