Lithium is a naturally occurring element that’s commonly prescribed in the format of “lithium carbonate” for the prophylaxis and/or management of bipolar disorder. Additionally, lithium is sometimes prescribed as an adjunct to treat refractory cases of major depressive disorder and schizophrenia. Throughout treatment, lithium is understood to modulate numerous aspects of a user’s neurophysiology to …
Elemental lithium was first discovered by Johann August Arfvedson in 1817 and was later isolated via electrolysis of lithium oxide (Li2O) through a joint effort of William Thomas Brande and Sir Humphrey Davy. In the 19th century, scientists discovered that lithium was capable of dissolving uric acid crystals isolated from kidneys, and for this reason, …
Lithium carbonate has become a very popular augmentation option for treatment-resistant depression. If you have treatment resistant depression, chances are that most psychiatrists have explored antidepressant monotherapy – or treatment with a single antidepressant. Once you have gone through the ringer of SSRI’s, TCA’s, and MAOI’s and found that none of the medications help your …