Endocrine disturbances related to the use of lithium.
Despite recent advances in pharmacological treatment of psychiatric disorders, lithium salts remain frequently used, as they are effective and inexpensive alternatives, especially in the treatment of bipolar disorders. Their use is commonly associated with various endocrine disorders, mainly in thyroid and parathyroid function, and in mineral metabolism. This article aims at reviewing these potential endocrinopathies related to the use of lithium to make health care professionals aware and familiar with these possible complications when they follow up patients using this drug, and to make them able to monitor, identify and institute early and appropriate treatment.
Serviço de Endocrinologia, Hospital do Servidor Público Estadual (HSPE), São Paulo, SP, Brazil. ceciliagiusti@hotmail.com
Cecília F
CF
Giusti
Soraya R
SR
Amorim
Ricardo A
RA
Guerra
Evandro S
ES
Portes
D001786:Blood Glucose / Q000378:metabolism; D018500:Diabetes Insipidus, Nephrogenic / Q000139:chemically induced; D004700:Endocrine System Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced*; D006801:Humans; D018020:Lithium Compounds / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy; D010280:Parathyroid Glands / Q000187:drug effects*; D013961:Thyroid Gland / Q000187:drug effects*
D001786:Blood Glucose; D018020:Lithium Compounds