Reasons for discontinuing and restarting lithium multiple times: a case-register study based on the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust Clinical Record Interactive Search system.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Despite the therapeutic benefits, non-adherence to lithium is common. One recent study showed that most patients discontinue lithium due to adverse effects. Little is known about individuals starting and discontinuing lithium repeatedly.

Objectives

We aimed to determine reasons for discontinuing and restarting lithium multiple times in patients with bipolar or schizoaffective disorder.

Design

Retrospective cohort study based on psychiatric case records of the SLaM Biomedical Research Centre Case Register (SLaM BRC case register).

Method

Anonymised clinical data were extracted via the Clinical Record Interactive Search (CRIS) application. Patients with at least three events of lithium discontinuation between 2012 and 2022 were included.

Results

SUBMITTER: Truedson P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12035018 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature