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International Journal of Bipolar Disorders

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Open Access 01-12-2019 | Mood Disorders | Review

Clinical use of lithium salts: guide for users and prescribers

Authors: Leonardo Tondo, Martin Alda, Michael Bauer, Veerle Bergink, Paul Grof, Tomas Hajek, Ute Lewitka, Rasmus W. Licht, Mirko Manchia, Bruno Müller-Oerlinghausen, René E. Nielsen, Marylou Selo, Christian Simhandl, Ross J. Baldessarini, for the International Group for Studies of Lithium (IGSLi)

Published in: International Journal of Bipolar Disorders | Issue 1/2019

Abstract

Background

Lithium has been used clinically for 70 years, mainly to treat bipolar disorder. Competing treatments and exaggerated impressions about complexity and risks of lithium treatment have led to its declining use in some countries, encouraging this update about its safe clinical use. We conducted a nonsystematic review of recent research reports and developed consensus among international experts on the use of lithium to treat major mood disorders, aiming for a simple but authoritative guide for patients and prescribers.

Main text

We summarized recommendations concerning safe clinical use of lithium salts to treat major mood disorders, including indications, dosing, clinical monitoring, adverse effects and use in specific circumstances including during pregnancy and for the elderly.

Conclusions

Lithium continues as the standard and most extensively evaluated treatment for bipolar disorder, especially for long-term prophylaxis.

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Title: Clinical use of lithium salts: guide for users and prescribers
Authors: Leonardo Tondo
Martin Alda
Michael Bauer
Veerle Bergink
Paul Grof
Tomas Hajek
Ute Lewitka
Rasmus W. Licht
Mirko Manchia
Bruno Müller-Oerlinghausen
René E. Nielsen
Marylou Selo
Christian Simhandl
Ross J. Baldessarini
for the International Group for Studies of Lithium (IGSLi)
Publication date: 01-12-2019
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keywords: Mood Disorders
Affective Disorder
Suicide
Suicide
Published in: International Journal of Bipolar Disorders / Issue 1/2019
Electronic ISSN: 2194-7511
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40345-019-0151-2

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Clinical use of lithium salts: guide for users and prescribers

Abstract

Background

Main text

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Main text

Conclusions

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