Comparison of the Changes in Central Catecholamine Systems following Short- and Long-Term Lithium Treatment and the Consequences of Lithium Withdrawal

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Abstract
The effects of treatment with and withdrawal from lithium (Li, 2 mmol/kg) on central catecholamine systems in rat brain were investigated. Synthetic parameters were found to be unchanged after treatment, but abrupt withdrawal resulted in enhanced activity of tyrosine hydroxylase. Noradrenaline levels in most brain regions examined were depressed following both short- and long-term Li administration, with a further decrease in content in the pons but enhanced cortical levels on withdrawal. Li administration resulted in elevated 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid levels, whereas withdrawal caused an enhancement of homovanillic acid content and depression of 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl glycol levels. It appears that the changes in central catecholamine systems are qualitatively the same following both short- and long-term Li treatment, as are the consequences of abrupt Li withdrawal. It is suggested that Li administration results in a disruption of catecholamine storage processes, while withdrawal from Li does not result in a simple return towards normal states.