Can lithium salts prevent depressive episodes in the real world?

To critically examine the effectiveness of lithium in preventing depressive symptoms (mixed and depressive episodes) in real life settings, taking into account adherence to drug treatment and its implications for the clinical costs of the disease. Overall, 72 patients with bipolar disorder initially treated with lithium carbonate were included and followed-up for 10 years. Patients were assessed every 8 weeks for morbidity and alcohol/drug consumption. Patients with good adherence to lithium had fewer episodes with depressive features than poor adherers (B  = 2.405, p = 0.046) and also fewer manic and hypomanic episodes (B = 2.572; p 
Source: European Neuropsychopharmacology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Source Type: research