Lithium supplementation does not slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease, meta-analysis finds
A new meta-analysis reveals that common lithium treatments do not slow memory loss in older adults with Alzheimer’s disease or mild cognitive impairment, despite previous laboratory research suggesting the mineral might have neuroprotective benefits.
A new analysis of lithium's effect on Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment found that the mineral does not slow cognitive decline. Published in Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, the meta-analysis conducted by Taro Kishi and colleagues at Fujita Health University School of Medicine examined six clinical trials involving 435 participants.
The trials tested various forms of lithium supplementation, including lithium carbonate, lithium sulfate, and lithium gluconate. The studies varied in duration, ranging from 10 weeks to 24 months, and included patients with mild cognitive impairment and different stages of Alzheimer's disease. However, the combined data from these trials showed no significant difference in cognitive test scores between the lithium group and the placebo group.
The researchers also investigated secondary outcomes, such as behavioral symptoms and adverse side effects, but found no statistically significant differences between the lithium and placebo groups. These findings contradict previous evidence suggesting that lithium could protect brain cells from damage and slow mental decline in Alzheimer's patients.
The new analysis reinforces the need for further research into effective treatments to halt or slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
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