Information Links Lithium to Thyroid, Parathyroid Problems

A review in <i>The Lancet</i> found that in addition to the known potential for causing weight gain, taking lithium may increase the activity of the thyroid and parathyroid glands. Because of the increased risk for hyperparathyroidism, it is now recommended that doctors check blood calcium levels, an indicator for parathyroid activity, before beginning lithium therapy and periodically while the patient is taking lithium.<br /><br /> Lithium is a first-line treatment for bipolar disorder and may be used as add-on treatment for major depression.<p> The review found that patients taking lithium gained more weight than those taking a <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://bipolar.about.com/od/glossaryp/g/gl_placebo.htm">placebo</a>, but less than those taking <a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://bipolar.about.com/cs/zyprexa/a/meds_zyprexa.htm">Zyprexa</a> (olanzapine).<p> <b>For more information:</b> <ul> <b><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://bipolar.about.com/od/lithium/a/lithium_profile.htm">Lithium Drug Profile</a></b> <b><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/?zi=1/1hc&#038;zu=http://thyroid.about.com/library/endocrine/blhyperparathyroidism2.htm">Hyperparathyroidism</a></b> <b><li><a href="http://clk.about.com/...
Source: About.com Bipolar Disorder - Category: Psychiatry Source Type: news