Posted by jms600 on May 16, 2011, at 8:03:05
In reply to How many are taking low-dose lithium?, posted by SLS on May 15, 2011, at 20:33:54
> Does anyone use low-dose lithium as a neurotrophic?
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> I have become a believer in the utility of using lithium as a neurotrophic agent for both unipolar and bipolar depression at dosages of 300-600mg. Investigations of lithium have shown that it influences the signaling of second messenger cascades to produce nerve growth hormones. One may not feel an improvement immediately, though. In this capacity, lithium is not working as an antimanic nor antidepressant. It serves to enhance the recovery of brain tissue volume and the formation of new connections via the sprouting of neurites. Phosphatidylserine and omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) further aid in supporting the recovery process via membrane construction. Neuroplasticity is thus facilitated. These things take time. In this role, lithium does not produce acute therapeutic effects, but, rather, works in the background to support the mechanics of positive change.
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> - ScottHi Scott
I take 600mg of lithium carbonate per day. I also take 225mg Effexor and 40mg buspirone. My diagnosis is unipolar depression, severe GAD and panic disorder.
I can't say that the lithium has been totally effective in treating my depression although I think it has helped a bit as an addition to the venlafaxine. Maybe I should consider asking my doctor to increase the dose??
It hasn't helped my anxiety at all.
poster:jms600
thread:985426
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20110515/msgs/985442.html