Lithium Treatment in Children and Adolescents

Pharmacopsychiatry
Anne Duffy, Paul Grof

Abstract

There is a resurgence of interest in lithium treatment of bipolar disorders in part related to its unique anti-suicidal and neuroprotective effects. This is a narrative review of key studies pertaining to the effectiveness and tolerability of lithium treatment in pediatric populations. Evidence supports that lithium is an effective and generally well-tolerated acute treatment for pediatric mania compared to placebo. Lithium may be less effective than risperidone for treating chronic mixed/manic symptoms in young children but comparable to anticonvulsants. However, in comparison, risperidone was associated with higher weight gain and prolactin levels. There is a lack of evidence inform maintenance treatment in children who benefit from lithium. Other indications that require further study include treatment of refractory or recurrent major depression in children at confirmed familial risk of bipolar disorder, as well as the treatment of acute suicidal ideation/behavior and refractory aggression. There is inadequate data about the full variety of benefit and tolerability of lithium treatment in pediatric patients. However, given the potential for protection against suicide and neurotoxic effects of illness, further studies should ...Continue Reading

Citations

Feb 6, 2020·Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, and Allied Disciplines·Jennifer B DwyerMichael H Bloch
May 22, 2020·International Journal of Bipolar Disorders·Andrea MurruUNKNOWN International Group for The Study of Lithium Treated Patients (IGSLi)

❮ Previous
Next ❯

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterized by manic and/or depressive episodes and associated with uncommon shifts in mood, activity levels, and energy. Discover the latest research this illness here.