Serum lithium levels were analyzed in six healthy, normal women during
the midfollicular, midluteal, and premenstrual phases of their menstrual
cycles after they had received 300 mg of lithium carbonate orally. An
identical protocol was followed for seven women with artificial cycles
induced by oral contraceptive steroids. Analysis of variance for repeated
measures over time showed no significant differences between groups or
between cycle phases. Therefore, hormonal effects of ovarian or
contraceptive steroids per se do not appear to alter serum lithium
concentrations. Other factors may account for changing lithium requirements
during the menstrual cycle in some patients with affective illness.Abstract Teaser