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Published in: Journal of Neural Transmission 2/2018

01-02-2018 | High Impact Review in Neuroscience, Neurology or Psychiatry - Review Article

Trace lithium and mental health

Authors: Nobuyoshi Ishii, Takeshi Terao

Published in: Journal of Neural Transmission | Issue 2/2018

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Abstract

Lithium therapy is generally accepted as a first-line treatment for bipolar disorder, and it is also identified as one of the best augmenting options for treatment-resistant depression. Furthermore, lithium has been investigated in association with suicide, dementia and aggressiveness. In this review, we examined articles about the effects of very small amounts of lithium in treating suicide, dementia, bipolar disorder and temperament, to assess the present state of trace lithium’s effect on mental state. The results indicate that trace lithium may be effective for suicide prevention but randomized, placebo-controlled trials are required to draw a definite conclusion. Indications for using trace lithium in treating such conditions as dementia, bipolar disorder and temperament are supported by very limited evidence and such effects are yet to be determined.
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Metadata
Title
Trace lithium and mental health
Authors
Nobuyoshi Ishii
Takeshi Terao
Publication date
01-02-2018
Publisher
Springer Vienna
Published in
Journal of Neural Transmission / Issue 2/2018
Print ISSN: 0300-9564
Electronic ISSN: 1435-1463
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00702-017-1824-6

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