Low-dose lithium refers to very small amounts of lithium, far below psychiatric prescription doses, available in some supplements (often as lithium orotate) and naturally present in trace amounts in water and food. It has drawn longevity interest from population studies linking trace lithium in drinking water to certain health outcomes. This is distinct from prescription lithium used at much higher doses for bipolar disorder.
The interest comes largely from observational population studies associating trace lithium levels in water supplies with outcomes such as lower suicide rates in some regions. This is intriguing but observational, and does not establish that low-dose lithium supplements produce benefits. Rigorous trials of supplemental low-dose lithium for longevity or mood in the general population are lacking.
Even at low doses, lithium is a substance the body handles within a narrow range, and it can affect the thyroid and kidneys over time. The gap between the trace amounts in water and supplement doses matters, and self-dosing without monitoring carries more uncertainty than most supplements.
Do not confuse this with prescription lithium, which is a carefully monitored psychiatric medication at much higher doses. If you have thyroid or kidney conditions, or take any medication, speak to a doctor before any lithium supplement. Any mood condition should be managed medically, not with a supplement.
Inexpensive as a supplement (lithium orotate), sold as a monthly supply, though its use is not well established.
Observational population studies on trace lithium in water supplies. Educational information only. Distinct from prescription lithium therapy. Not an established supplement.