Reasons for and outcomes after lithium discontinuation in patients with bipolar or schizoaffective disorder. A case-register study based on the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust Clinical Record Interactive Search (CRIS) System

Lithium is one of the most effective treatments for bipolar disorders, but many people stop lithium because of adverse effects, thereby increasing their risk of relapse and even self-harm or suicide. This project will examine who stops lithium, why lithium is stopped, and what happens after stopping lithium in terms of relapses, readmissions to hospital and self-harm or attempted suicide.