A need to replenish essential lithium microdoses in epilepsy suggested by clinical and epidemiological studies on lithium as a factor for preventing impulsive behavior, suicide, stress disorders

Studies conducted over the past 40 years point at the essentiality (vital necessity) of the ultramicroelement lithium. One of the microelement essentiality criteria relies on available clinical and epidemiological studies corroborating the negative consequences of insufficient lithium consumption on a population scale. Sufficient lithium supply exerts a neuroprotective, nootropic and normothymic effect. Lower blood lithium levels are associated with an increased risk of developing varicose veins, sleep disorders, extrapyramidal disorders and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Extensive clinical and epidemiological data base demonstrates a clear relationship between lower lithium-ion levels in drinking water and an increased risk of suicide, psychotic stress disorders, addiction diseases, serious crime and impulsive behavior (which is a risk factor for both suicidality and aggression leading to serious crimes). Taking lithium preparations helps to slow down dementia (both vascular and neurodegenerative forms) and other behavioral aging-associated disorders, including a total risk of tumor diseases, fractures, overeating and bulimia. The use of lithium salt-based preparations and better lithium supply through drinking water can lower seizure readiness, impulsive behavior, risk of suicide, anxiety and depression in patients with epilepsy. The current article presents the results of scientific literature systematization on this issue.

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