Systematic Review: Low-Dose Lithium Interventions
Lithium is increasingly recognised to have benefits for a number of neuropsychiatric conditions, but there are concerns about the adverse effects of typical ‘therapeutic’ doses. Benefits have been reported for ‘sub-therapeutic’ doses but these had not been reviewed. We sought all studies reporting the effects of low-dose lithium on neuropsychiatric health. Significant benefits (versus placebo) were identified for attenuating cognitive decline, and potentially as adjunctive therapy for people with mood disorders. Across studies, low-dose lithium was reported to be safe. Though evidence is limited, these results open promising avenues in neurodegeneration and should stimulate discussion about optimal doses for augmentation in affective disorders.
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