Tag Archives: lithium

Neurobehavioral Outcomes in Children Exposed to Lithium in Utero

Driven by concerns regarding fetal exposure to psychotropic medications, many women with psychiatric illness attempt to discontinue their pharmacologic treatment during pregnancy; however, recent studies indicate that this approach may not be appropriate for all women. Dr. Adele Viguera and her colleagues at the Center for Women’s Mental Health have reported that among pregnant women [...]

Can Women Taking Lithium Breastfeed Their Infants?

It is clear that women with bipolar disorder are at high risk for relapse during the immediate postpartum period (Viguera 2000). There is evidence that the resumption of lithium prior to or within 24-48 hours of delivery can significantly reduce the risk of postpartum illness (Cohen 1995). While this intervention is the current standard of [...]

Lithium Discontinuation While Attempting to Conceive

For women with bipolar disorder who are planning a pregnancy, it is common practice to discontinue mood stabilizers prior to attempts to conceive, since the mood stabilizers most commonly used to treat [...]