Table 2 Myths and facts about lithium treatment in psychiatric practice
Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
Lithium is not the first choice in bipolar disorder | Lithium should represent the first choice for the treatment of patients with bipolar disorder |
Lithium should be avoided in adolescents and elderly patients | Lithium treatment is effective in different patients’ groups with bipolar disorder, including young and elderly patients |
The risk of drug–drug interactions is an important limitation in lithium treatment | The risk of drug–drug interaction can be easily managed during lithium treatment |
Weekly lab tests are required during treatment with lithium | The optimal management of lithium treatment includes periodical laboratory tests |
Different lithium formulations do not modify its tolerability profile | Slow-release lithium formulation has advantages compared to immediate release formulation |
No drug has antisuicidal effects | Lithium has an antisuicidal effect |
Lithium should be avoided during pregnancy | Lithium can be carefully managed during pregnancy |