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Dear List members It is my understanding about Lithium that over time it can cause symptoms of PD, and so whilst it is one of the "lesser" evils which cause PD, it should be approached with caution and perhaps the understanding that it may precipitate latent PD. If you already HAVE PD, it seems a bit stupid to take a drug which may exaccerbate your symptoms. There are other side effects of lithium too, like any drug taken over time, these things are cumulative. However, lithium is still considered (by some) a safe and effective drug for those who need it - that is those who suffer from bi-polar depression.. However, having said all that, if it was ME who had to take lithium, and had a doctor who left me on it for years and years without discussing options of other and perhaps newer & better drugs, I would be looking around for another psychiatrist, at least a second opinion. I have a close relative who has bi-polar disorder, so have had a bit of experience with seeing the effects of drugs used to control this disorder. They all seem to produce PD symptoms over time. Joy Graham (CG Bob, 58, 9 yrs) >Hans: I don't know the answer to this question, but I do wonder why lithium >is contra-indicated. My husband has taken it since 1981, and we specifically >asked his neurologist and his psychopharmacologist about sinemet, eldepryl and >lithium interacting. Both of them (they don't know each other) said there was >no problem. We leaned on them very hard when my husband got such terrible >diarrhea from sinemet. I also looked in PDR (as did our neuro and the >psychoph.). Nothing. And since Bob stopped sinemet 17 months ago, he has >been just fine. His tremor has diminished and his handwriting has improved >immensely. Just wondering. Delda White CG Bob 66/2