The impact of lithium in South-west Scotland. I. Demographic and clinical findings.

A point-prevalence study in South-west Scotland found that 0.77 per 1,000 of the total population were receiving lithium. Almost one quarter had done so for more than ten years. At the time of lithium commencement, only 68% had always been diagnosed as having an affective illness; 59% of the patients were also receiving antidepressants, major tranquillisers, or both. Though this might be due in part to unnecessary administration of supplementary drugs, 19% of non-inpatients had moderate depressive symptoms, significant depressive illness, or manic symptoms. Lithium side-effects were prominent: 30% of the sample complained of weight gain, thirst or excessive micturition; 42% had noticed hair changes; and 7% had diminished thyroid activity, but most patients believed they had benefited considerably from lithium therapy.