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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes A Psychotic Break After Discontinuing Lithium?

I work on a MH crisis line. Caller said her husband has been off Lithium now for 2 weeks and is possibly having a psychotic break. Told her to take him to the ER for an evaluation. I seem to remember that Lithium withdrawal can be dangerous if not done gradually, but did not mention that.
Mon, 25 Apr 2016
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hi,
Thanks for the query. I understand your concern
Lithium is used in various psychotic disorders. It acts by suppressing / preventing the depressive episodes & thus ,helps to prevent episodes of suicide
naturally while withdrawal of lithium.. the basic tendency returns & so some times lithium withdrawal is dangerous in some cases.( specially when not done under expert guidance.)
You had given a correct advise to the lady.. a good job indeed!
Thanks
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What Causes A Psychotic Break After Discontinuing Lithium?

Hi, Thanks for the query. I understand your concern Lithium is used in various psychotic disorders. It acts by suppressing / preventing the depressive episodes & thus ,helps to prevent episodes of suicide naturally while withdrawal of lithium.. the basic tendency returns & so some times lithium withdrawal is dangerous in some cases.( specially when not done under expert guidance.) You had given a correct advise to the lady.. a good job indeed! Thanks