Can You Answer Some Questions About Lithium?

Written by Dr. Leland Heller

QUESTION:

Dear Dr. Heller,

I'm just doing some research on using lithium as a psychotropic drug. I was wondering what is the chemical form that is used? What is the typical therapeutic dose used? Is lithium used to treat Borderline Personality Disorder?

DR. HELLER'S ANSWER:

1) Lithium carbonate.

2) Doses vary depending on the individuals. 300mg twice daily is a common starting dose. What matters is the blood level, not the actual dose.

3) Some reports show improvement with lithium. I've only seen it useful in borderlines who also have bipolar disorder. Lithium is particularly useful for suicidality in these patients.

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