Lithium orotate
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Lithium orotate is a type of lithium salt often sold as an over-the-counter dietary supplement.
It is sold as an alternative to lithium carbonate, and it is available without a doctor's prescription. The amount of elemental lithium in each tablet are much lower than those in lithium carbonate pills. Lower amounts of lithium are used, as the lithium in attached to an orotate salt, rather than to the carbonate. This allows the lithium to cross the blood-brain barrier more effectively, and significantly reduces the amount of lithium required in order for the lithium to have a therapeutic effect for use in combating depression and stabilizing bipolar moods. Lithium orotate is sometimes sold as "organic lithium" by nutritionists, as well as under a wide variety of brand names. The type of salt which it is attached to makes it different than lithium carbonate. Orotate salts were studied and used extensively by medical pioneer Hans Nieper. It was Nieper who discovered the ability of orotate salts to cross the blood-brain barrier efficiently through the double cell membrane and releases within the cell. The lithium is metabolized within the cell, particularly at the mitochondria. Electron microscope research has been conducted to demonstrate the above functions and processes by Moenninghoff and his collaborators at the University of Munster, Westphalia (1971).
Orotate comes from a biological component of our cells called orotic acid. His patients among many include former United States president Ronald Reagan. It should be noted that self-treatment of a psychiatric disorder without medical monitoring is potentially dangerous. Therefore if using lithium Orotate to stabilize moods, or combat depression, it is very important to work with a medical professional.
There seems to be little evidence for its use in clinical treatment in preference to lithium carbonate. However, many patients use it in place of lithium carbonate, as side effects tend to be significantly reduced. Again, please note that self-treatment without medical monitoring is potentially dangerous.
External links
- Ask the Expert (http://www.mhsource.com/expert/exp1121602b.html)