127. Lithium Orotate & Lithium Carbonate
In this episode of the Joy Lab podcast, hosts Dr. Henry Emmons and Dr. Aimee Prasek talk about lithium orotate, a compound different from the commonly prescribed lithium carbonate used for bipolar disorder. They explore its potential advantages including better brain absorption and fewer side effects at lower doses, while also clarifying that although it should not replace prescribed medications, it may have valuable uses. The conversation also covers how lithium orotate may have a role in clinical practice for mood disorders and depression with a genetic component. The historical context of lithium's use and the repercussions of its bad PR in the past are also noted, alongside emerging research on its possible preventive role for conditions like Alzheimer's.
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Key moments:
00:00 Introduction to the Joy Lab Podcast
00:39 Unveiling the Topic: Lithium Orotate
00:57 Understanding the Different Types of Lithium
01:42 The Benefits and Precautions of Lithium Orotate
01:56 Exploring the Nature and Uses of Lithium
03:25 Lithium Orotate in Clinical Practice
09:32 The History and Perception of Lithium
14:12 Lithium's Role in Brain Detoxification and Prevention
16:31 Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects
17:45 Outro and Disclaimer
Sources and Notes:
- Corcoran, A. C., Taylor, R. D., & Page, I. H. (1949). Lithium poisoning from the use of salt substitutes. JAMA, 139(11), 685–688. doi:10.1001/jama.1949.02900280001001
- , & (2021). Lithium Orotate: A superior option for lithium therapy?. Brain and Behavior, 11, e2262. https://doi.org/10.1002/brb3.2262
- Strobusch, A. D., & Jefferson, J. W. (1980). The Checkered History of Lithium in Medicine. Pharmacy in History, 22(2), 72–76. http://www.jstor.org/stable/41109216
- New York Time's article about possible lithium chloride deaths.
- Time article about possible lithium chloride deaths.
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