Low-dose lithium explored as potential disease-modifying therapy for Alzheimer's

New research argues that low-dose lithium, a long-used bipolar disorder drug, may slow Alzheimer's progression by boosting brain resilience and countering neuroprogression, acting on multiple pathways (BDNF, bcl-2, GSK-3) to promote neuroprotection. While traditional psychiatric doses carry risks to kidney and thyroid function, the study suggests much lower doses could offer benefits with fewer side effects, and experts emphasize that rigorous clinical trials are needed before any change in medical practice. The findings fuel interest in repurposing an affordable, widely available drug as part of a multi-target approach to dementia, but caution remains about safety and efficacy in older adults.