Can Lithium Slow Cognitive Decline?

Background: Animal studies have found that lithium is sequestered in amyloid plaques found in Alzheimer disease (AD). Although this does not automatically mean that lithium is neuroprotective, it does suggest that perhaps lithium deficiency is a mechanism of neurodegeneration, which can be modified in humans. Research to date has found that lithium can decrease cognitive decline compared to placebo in those with AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Objective: To examine the ability of low-dose lithium in delaying cognitive decline and its effects on the brain. Design: Single-center, pilot, randomized clinical trial (RCT). Participants/Methods: 80 individuals aged ≥60 years with a diagnosis of MCI were recruited through outreach and internet advertisement in 2017. The study began in February 2, 2018, and ended in August 6, 2022. Initially, all evaluations were completed in person until the start of COVID-19, then transitioned to virtual evaluation. Participants were randomized 1 more...