Is there a lithium withdrawal syndrome? An examination of the evidence.
The evidence for abstinence phenomena after discontinuation of lithium is weak and ambiguous. Early manic and depressive recurrences after lithium discontinuation may suggest rebound, but studies carried out with appropriate methodology have failed to confirm its reality. Discontinuation of prophylactic lithium treatment of recurrent manic-depressive illness, whether abrupt or gradual, involves risk of relapse, but the existence of a special lithium withdrawal syndrome remains unproven.
Schou
M
M
Psychiatric Hospital, Risskov, Denmark.
D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008094:Lithium / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008297:Male; D012008:Recurrence; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology
D008094:Lithium