Lithium levels and lifestyle in patients with bipolar disorder: a new tool for self-management

BackgroundPatients should get actively involved in the management of their illness. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of lifestyle factors, including sleep, diet, and physical activity, on lithium levels in patients with bipolar disorder.MethodsA multicenter study was performed. In t...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Zorrilla, Iñaki, López Zurbano, Saioa, Alberich, Susana, Barbero, Iker, López Pena, Purificación, García Corres, Edurne, Chart Pascual, Johnny P., Crespo, J. M. (José Manuel), Dios, Consuelo de, Balanzá-Martínez, Vicent, González-Pinto, Ana
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Estado:Versión publicada
Fecha de publicación:2023
País:España
Institución:Varias* (Consorci de Biblioteques Universitáries de Catalunya, Centre de Serveis Científics i Acadèmics de Catalunya)
Repositorio:Recercat. Dipósit de la Recerca de Catalunya
OAI Identifier:oai:recercat.cat:2445/197652
Acceso en línea:https://hdl.handle.net/2445/197652
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Trastorn bipolar
Liti
Manic-depressive illness
Lithium
Descripción
Sumario:BackgroundPatients should get actively involved in the management of their illness. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of lifestyle factors, including sleep, diet, and physical activity, on lithium levels in patients with bipolar disorder.MethodsA multicenter study was performed. In total, 157 lithium measurements were done biweekly in a sample of 65 patients (35 women) over 6 weeks. Lifestyle, based on total sleep hours and physical activity, was assessed by actigraphy. Diet was evaluated using the Mediterranean Lifestyle Index (Medlife).Results35.4% of patients had a normal weight. The mean Medlife score was 14.5 (+/- 2.5) (moderate-good adherence to Mediterranean diet). BMI, daily dose of lithium and intensity of physical activity had a combined effect on lithium levels, after adjustment for other variables. Patients who practiced intense physical exercise, who took lower doses and had a higher BMI exhibited lower levels of lithium.ConclusionsHigher physical activity and BMI contribute to lower lithium levels. Patients should be made aware of these relationships to improve their perception of control and self-management. Lifestyle-based interventions contribute to establishing a more personalized medicine.