Lithium in mood disorders: increasing evidence base, declining use?
Use of lithium for the treatment of bipolar disorder may be declining even as knowledge of the efficacy and side-effects of lithium has increased. Recent meta-analyses confirm the benefits of maintenance lithium treatment and show that it reduces suicide and suicidality. Psychiatrists should continue to utilise this efficacious treatment for bipolar disorder.
Young
Allan H
AH
Institute of Mental Health, University of British Columbia, University Boulevard, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 1Z3. allan.young@ubc.ca
Hammond
Judith M
JM
D018692:Antimanic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016651:Lithium Carbonate / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008134:Long-Term Care; D008297:Male; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D000092864:Suicide Prevention
D018692:Antimanic Agents; D016651:Lithium Carbonate