Lifelong Learning: Lithium Exposure During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period: A Systematic Review and Meta- Analysis of Safety and Efficacy Outcomes-View Article

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A systematic review and meta-analysis found that lithium exposure during pregnancy increased the risk of cardiac anomalies and congenital anomalies. It also found that lithium use during the first trimester was associated with a higher risk of spontaneous abortion. However, lithium was effective in preventing postpartum relapse. The authors recommend planning pregnancies during remission, prescribing the lowest therapeutic range of lithium during pregnancy, and gradually reducing the dosage during the first trimester while monitoring serum levels. Further research is needed to better understand the risks and benefits.

Keywords

systematic review

meta-analysis

lithium exposure

pregnancy

cardiac anomalies

congenital anomalies

first trimester

spontaneous abortion

postpartum relapse

therapeutic range