Following up on previous research and clinical observations made by Drs. Anastasia Yocum and Melvin McInnis, new research has been published that emphasizes the importance of being extra cautious when individuals with bipolar disorder (BD) who are treated with lithium contract COVID-19. Lithium is well-known for its effectiveness in stabilizing mood swings in people with BD. However, earlier findings have shown an increased risk of lithium toxicity during COVID infection.
Prechter Program visiting scholar Dr. Frances Adiukwu (from the University of Port Harcourt in Nigeria) led a collaborative study with a data science intern, Ian Gesler, and Prechter Program researchers Mrs. Wright, Dr. Yocum, and Dr. McInnis. This study investigated 98 Michigan Medicine patients, who have BD, are treated with lithium, and were infected with SARS-CoV-2 during the study timeframe, from September 2019 to September 2023.
The findings revealed no overarching effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on serum lithium levels. Additionally, there was no significant association between higher serum lithium levels and the presence of other medical comorbidities, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Elevated serum lithium was not linked to significant kidney problems within this study; however, higher lithium levels were observed in males during infection compared to when they were not infected. Interestingly, receiving a COVID-19 vaccination was associated with lower serum lithium levels.
These findings are reassuring, indicating that lithium can be used safely in the context of a COVID-19 illness. However, they underscore the ongoing need for clinical vigilance, as reports of severe lithium toxicity may result from the greater overall severity of COVID-19 illness.
This collaborative research highlights the importance of interdisciplinary efforts in understanding and managing the complex interactions between chronic mental health treatments and acute infections, ensuring patient safety and well-being.