Stopping Lithium Can Slow Decline of Kidney Function

This effect is more pronounced in people with lower levels of kidney function at the time of stopping.

Lithium is a mainstay in managing mood disorders. However, long-term use of lithium, even in the blood-concentration therapeutic range, is associated with excess risk for developing chronic kidney disease (NEJM JW Gen Med Feb 1 2025 and Lancet Psychiatry 2024; 11:1002). In a new retrospective study of 168 adults (mean age, 62), researchers in Sweden determined the effects of stopping lithium on kidney function.

Patients had taken lithium for ≥4.5 years before stopping. The study used 5-year pre– and post–lithium discontinuation periods for analysis. Adjusted for multiple variables, estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFRs) declined by a mean 1.58 mL/minute/1.73 m² annually before lithium discontinuation but declined by only a mean 0.02 m…

Reviewing Author

Paul S. Mueller, MD, MPH, FACP

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose

Paul S. Mueller, MD, MPH, FACP

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose

Stopping Lithium Can Slow Decline of Kidney Function

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Reviewing Author