Researchers are launching a clinical trial to determine if lithium orotate can help treat early Alzheimer’s disease following promising results in mouse studies.

A clinical trial at Johns Hopkins University is set to begin next month to test lithium orotate in patients with early Alzheimer’s disease. This study follows research from Harvard University indicating that the substance reversed memory loss in mouse models of the disease. While lithium has a long history in psychiatric treatment, its potential role in preventing or treating dementia remains under investigation.

Research and Potential Mechanisms

Studies have observed that the brains of individuals who died with Alzheimer’s disease contained lower levels of lithium compared to those without cognitive impairment. Additionally, research led by Hyeong-Moo Shin at Baylor University found that US counties with higher levels of naturally occurring lithium in public water supplies reported lower rates of dementia. Researchers believe lithium may protect against neurodegeneration by inhibiting the enzyme glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3 beta), which helps regulate inflammation and reduces the accumulation of amyloid plaques.

Safety and Clinical Context

While lithium carbonate is commonly prescribed for bipolar disorder, a recent study by the University of Pittsburgh found no cognitive benefit for adults over 60 taking the medication for two years. Researchers hope lithium orotate may be more effective, as it is thought to be less likely to be absorbed by amyloid plaques. However, experts warn that lithium can cause side effects including tremors, nausea, and kidney or thyroid toxicity. There is currently no standard test to determine lithium deficiency, and the long-term safety of low-dose supplementation remains unproven.