Lithium Supplementation, Alzheimer's, and Cognitive Health
- Elizabeth Bradley, MS
- Nov 3
- 2 min read
Since the 1970s, lithium has been studied as a possible piece of the cognitive health puzzle. However, the variety of lithium types and doses used within the clinical studies has not led to any conclusive evidence to assist with the issue of Alzheimer's. Currently, there has been a revival of interest in Lithium Orotate with several clinical trials planned or in their early stages.
In a recent animal study, lithium was shown to be reduced in the brain of mice with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The study then explored replacement therapy with lithium orotate, which reversed the disease-related damage and restored memory function, even in mice with advanced stages of the disease. Understandably, these results are quite exciting in the realm of Alzheimer's and cognitive health.
Previous studies had focused on lithium carbonate; however, recent research has shown that lithium orotate may remain unbound in the brain, thereby assisting in the formation of healthy brain tissue.
Lithium carbonate is already utilized in medications for mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder, at much higher doses (~1000mg/day). However, the research is not conclusive for those with cognitive decline, although promising.
For someone experiencing cognitive decline, no medically established starting dose of lithium orotate exists due to the absence of published human clinical trials and official guidelines. However, anecdotal supplement use and planned early trials generally consider daily doses ranging from 5 mg to 20 mg of elemental lithium, from lithium orotate. Scientifically, lithium orotate contains about 3.8% elemental lithium by weight, meaning a 131 mg lithium orotate supplement provides approximately 5 mg of elemental lithium, the active lithium ion responsible for possible therapeutic effects.
It is essential that you speak with your doctor before starting new supplements or medications.
Resources and Further Reading
Lithium deficiency and the onset of Alzheimer's disease - 2025
A toxicological evaluation of lithium orotate
Association of Lithium in Drinking Water With the Incidence of Dementia - 2017
Lithium orotate, carbonate and chloride
Disease-modifying properties of long-term lithium treatment for amnestic mild cognitive impairment: randomised controlled trial - 2011
Lithium (carbonate) trial in Alzheimer's disease: a randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter 10-week study
Lithium as a Treatment for Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis - 2015
A Survey Exploring People's Experiences With Lithium Bought as a Supplement - 1978
Lithium Therapy’s Potential to Lower Dementia Risk and the Prevalence of Alzheimer’s Disease: A Meta-Analysis
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