LITHIUM MAINTENANCE TREATMENT OF MANIC-MELANCHOLIC PATIENTS: ITS ROLE IN THE DAILY ROUTINE

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Abstract
The desired and undesired effects of relapse-preventive Li treatment given routinely to manic-depressive patients who had accepted the necessity of a strict tablet regime was evaluated. The evaluation was based upon case record data and various rating scales, and 76 patients took part in the investigation. In 24% of the patients treatment was discontinued. This was due to side effects in 16% and to insufficient effect in 8% of the cases. The suicide risk was not eliminated, and 29% of the patients were receiving additional antidepressive or antimanic treatment at the test day. Of the patients 78% rated the relapse-preventive Li effect as moderate to excellent. Indirect evidence was obtained in support of a stabilizing effect of Li on the emotional control in bipolar patients. The most frequent complaints during Li treatment were tremor and increased thirst.

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