Disruption of the Compromised Brain

In combination with neuroleptics, especially haloperidol, there is an increased likelihood of severe encephalopathic syndromes that are sometimes irreversible (Baldessarini, 1978 Cohen et al., 1974). There is a case report of a similar reaction from combining lithium with the newer neuroleptic, risperidone (Swanson et al., 1995). 

The literature concerning lithium administration to individuals with preexisting brain disease is sparse but indicates the expected increase in brain disability, including in the elderly (Baldessarini, 1978). 

Beitman (1978) described a case of reactivation of tardive dyskinesia as a result of lithium therapy the tardive dyskinesia had been quiescent for many years. Crews and Carpenter (1977) also described a case in which lithium aggravated a preexisting tardive dyskinesia. 

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