Lithium carbonate may boost autophagy - clearing misfolded proteins which buildup in motor neurons during the course of the disease. Originally developed to treat bipolar disorder, lithium carbonate is also frequently prescribed to treat depression.
Based on our preclinical studies and clinical trials conducted by multiple research teams, we think lithium carbonate is unlikely to be of benefit to people with ALS.
A second look at completed trials and lessons learned going forward.
Lithium appears to be safe but of no benefit according to a randomized placebo-controlled trial of 214 ALS patients.
Lithium is ineffective and results frequently in side effects according to a randomized trial of 171 patients.
Lithium appears ineffective according to a placebo-controlled trial of 84 ALS patients on riluzole.
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