Lithium Therapy in Alzheimer\u27s Disease

Alzheimer\u27s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with no known cure which has a strong impact on patients and their caregivers. Current treatments for AD can slow the disease progression, but cannot reverse the damage that has already been done, resulting in some level of lifelong disability for affected patients. The use of lithium has shown promising results in mice models of AD. While animal models have produced positive results, additional human trials need to be conducted in order to determine a place for lithium in Alzheimer\u27s disease therapy. Pharmacists should be aware of this potential new use of lithium since this is a drug that requires intensive monitoring and has multiple drug interactions. By having knowledge of the rationale for using lithium in Alzheimer\u27s disease, pharmacists can be better equipped to counsel patients and their caregivers