A. Preston West, M.D. (1996) Excitotoxic Aspects of Lithium Neurotoxicity . Psycoloquy: 7(32) Lithium Toxicity (1)
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Psycoloquy 7(32): Excitotoxic Aspects of Lithium Neurotoxicity

EXCITOTOXIC ASPECTS OF LITHIUM NEUROTOXICITY
Target Article by West on Lithium-Toxicity

A. Preston West, M.D.
Veterans Affairs Medical Center (207D)
11301 Wilshire Blvd
Los Angeles. California 90073

WEST.ALFRED_PRESTON@WEST-LA.VA.GOV

Abstract

The potential importance of excitotoxic mechanisms in understanding lithium neurotoxicity is underscored by clinical and laboratory data which are reviewed here. A variety of different animal models of neurotoxicity are discussed as potential strategies for exploring excitotoxic aspects of lithium. Clinical research strategies suggested by the excitotoxic concept are also discussed, including use of neuroprotective drug treatment to prevent lithium induced irreversible brain damage.

Keywords

brain damage, cholinergic, excitotoxicity, lithium, memory loss, neuroprotective, seizure, stress.

References