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Microdosing Lithium2024-08-19
“Lithium isn’t for people who have bad moods. Lithium is for lifers.”
—Emilie Autumn
Microdosing of psychedelic drugs has become fashionable, especially among high achievers. It is used as a way of enhancing creativity, getting unstuck. A better option for microdosing for brain health and longevity is lithium. Another old medication, being rediscovered. The lowest prescription dose is usually 150mg taken orally at night. At that dose, the blood levels are "subtherapeutic" compared to current standards, but those standards were determined in the past based on studies in acute severe manic-depressive (bipolar) patients. At the "therapeutic range" doses, over the long run, there are always some emerging side effects that require dosage reduction or stopping the medication, which would be a pity. At doses of 150mg or below, there is very little if any chance of side-effects, but notable benefits in the long run on stress, mood, suicidal thoughts. People have smoother lives.
Nutraceutical over the counter lithium is available, 15mg daily is the dose I recommend to my patients that do not wish to be on a prescription for psychological reasons. There is intriguing data on Alzheimer’s prevention and longevity (telomere length). In general, lithium prevents apoptosis, keeps neurons (and other cells) alive. Even low doses may help. Parts of the world that have increased lithium in their soil and water have less mood disorders, violence, suicides.
In addition to my clinical experience, our blood biomarker studies over the years have found that lithium is often a good/top match across a variety of mental health conditions. Those blood tests can add another level of precision in terms of matching the medication to those most likely to benefit. As with everything, the dose makes the poison, lower doses are preferable and safer, and individuals need to check for medical and drug-drug interactions with their own clinicians. But disclaimers aside, this strategy is likely to have transformative effects on the lives of people who use it, for therapeutic or preventative purposes.