Abstract
Lithium carbonate is the single most important long-term treatment for recurrent affective disorders. The side effects of long-term treatment involve mainly the renal system, and therefore it is essential that patients be medically monitored closely. Lithium intoxication is a serious but largely preventable complication. Because its mechanisms of action are unknown, the effective use of lithium remains an empirical but essential part of modern psychiatric practice.
MeSH terms
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Aggression / drug effects
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Bipolar Disorder / drug therapy
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Bipolar Disorder / prevention & control
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Depressive Disorder / prevention & control
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Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
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Drug Therapy, Combination
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Haloperidol / therapeutic use
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Humans
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Hypothyroidism / chemically induced
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Kidney / drug effects
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Lithium / adverse effects
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Lithium / pharmacology
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Lithium / therapeutic use*
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Mood Disorders / prevention & control
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Psychotic Disorders / drug therapy
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Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / etiology