[Follow-up of patients that use lithium].
Lithium has been among the most important pharmacological treatments of psychiatric disease for more than 50 years. The main indication is treatment and prophylaxis of bipolar disease. Lithium is also used in the treatment of schizophrenia conditions with affective symptoms. The therapeutic effect of lithium is well documented, but it can also cause serious adverse effects. The drug has a narrow therapeutic range and intoxications can occur at normal or low doses. This article reviews guidelines for lithium treatment, including side effects, interactions and intoxications.
Psykofarmakologisk avdeling Diakonhjemmet Sykehus Postboks 85 Vinderen 0319 Oslo. dag.solberg@diakonsyk.no
Dag Kristen
DK
Solberg
Helge
H
Refsum
D018692:Antimanic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000097:blood / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004347:Drug Interactions; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D018020:Lithium Compounds / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000097:blood / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D018692:Antimanic Agents; D018020:Lithium Compounds