[Mechanism of action and kinetics of lithium. I. Biochemical and experimental pharmacological findings after administration of lithium-conclusions on the mechanism of the therapeutic effect of lithium].

A comprehensive consideration of biochemical and pharmacodynamic lithium (Li) effects enabled an explanation of the Li mechanism (Fig 1). According to this concept, Li might possibly affect the activity of membrane-bound ATPases in dependence on the initial situation, dose and duration of application. Research into Li-kinetics suggested the participation of active process in the transport of the ion through the organism. Li-kinetics describes distribution within a multiple-compartment system and, with the exception of the resorption phase, its independent of the anion used. The elimination (half-life time 22 to 25 hrs) is limited by backward flow form the tissue.