Lithium

Feldt-Rasmussen, Ulla and Lazarus, John H. 2026. Lithium. Huhtaniemi, Ilpo, ed. Encyclopedia of Endocrine Diseases (Third Edition), Vol. 4 Academic Press, pp. 378-381. (10.1016/B978-0-443-13825-6.00209-0)

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Abstract

Lithium was discovered in 1817. It accounts for approximately 0.006% of the earth′s crust. It belongs in group IA in the periodic table of elements but shares some physical properties with magnesium (group IIA). The main use of lithium in therapeutics is in the treatment and prophylaxis of bipolar disease, but other therapeutic areas (e.g. adjuvant anticancer treatment) are being explored. The mechanism of action is not fully understood and the drug has a narrow therapeutic ratio. Side effects are not uncommon and include disruption of several endocrine gland and other organ functions such as the thyroid, calcium, diabetes insipidus, kidney, cognitive, gastrointestinal, sexual and other functions. Weight gain is common as well. Intense monitoring is paramount in order to prevent toxicity.

Item Type:	Book Section
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Schools > Medicine
Publisher:	Academic Press
ISBN:	9780443138256
Last Modified:	17 Jun 2026 14:33
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/187604

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