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Lithium in the Treatment of Aggression in Mentally Handicapped Patients

A Double-Blind Trial

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2018

M. Craft ,
I. A. Ismail ,
D. Krishnamurti ,
J. Mathews ,
A. Regan ,
R. V. Seth  and
P. M. North
M. Craft
Affiliation:
Bryn-y-Neuadd Hospital, Llanfairfechan, and Llwyn View Hospital, Dolgellau; Mental Health Clinic, Surfers Paradise, Australia
I. A. Ismail
Affiliation:
Leicester Frith Hospital
D. Krishnamurti
Affiliation:
Ely Hospital
J. Mathews
Affiliation:
Bryn-y-Neuadd and Llwyn View Hospitals; Brockhall Hospital, near Blackburn
R. V. Seth
Affiliation:
Leavesden Hospital, Abbots Langley
P. M. North*
Affiliation:
Applied Statistics Research Unit, University of Kent
*
∗Applied Statistical Research Unit, Mathematical Institute, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent
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Abstract

In a double-blind trial lasting 4 months in 42 mentally handicapped patients, the effect of lithium on aggression was assessed in comparison with placebo. In the lithium-treated group, 73% of patients showed a reduction in aggression during treatment. There were significant differences in mean weekly aggression scores and in the frequency of aggressive episodes between the lithium and placebo groups. Side-effects were noted in 36% of the lithium group (and 20% of the placebo group), but were mainly transitory. There were no episodes of toxicity, and no patients had to be withdrawn from the trial. Lithium appears to be worth a 2-month trial in such patients, where repeated aggression has not been relieved by more appropriate placement, occupation or company.

Type
Research Article
Information
The British Journal of Psychiatry , Volume 150 , Issue 5 , May 1987 , pp. 685 - 689
Copyright
Copyright © 1987 The Royal College of Psychiatrists 

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