Abstract: Journal of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry Research

Abstract:
Lithium is widely used in the treatment of bipolar disorder, including among women of childbearing age. Its use during pregnancy raises significant clinical concerns due to its ability to cross the placenta and potentially affect fetal development. This review evaluates both animal and human studies on lithium exposure during pregnancy, highlighting risks such as congenital anomalies, particularly cardiac malformations (e.g., Ebstein’s anomaly), and spontaneous abortion. While studies indicate a higher risk of congenital defects in lithium-exposed pregnancies— especially in the first trimester—findings regarding low birth weight and preterm delivery remain inconclusive, with some evidence attributing those risks more to the underlying mood disorder than to lithium itself. The decision to use lithium during pregnancy must be individualized, carefully weighing maternal mental health stability against fetal risks. Close monitoring of serum lithium levels is crucial throughout pregnancy and postpartum due to phys iological changes affecting lithium pharmacokinetics