Effects of lithium carbonate on memory and other cognitive functions

Abstract
The effects of Li2CO3 on memory and cognitive function were studied in 16 psychiatric patients who received Li for 2 wk and placebo for 2 wk in a double-blind cross-over design. At the end of each treatment phase, subjects were administered a battery of memory and cognitive tests. Li induced slowing of performance on certain perceptual motor tests; however, Li did not cause memory impairment or a change in self-assessment of memory functions.