That is far too absolute. There is evidence that lithium prevents relapse in bipolar disorder over the long term, just as there is evidence that antipsychotics can prevent relapse in schizophrenia. That does not mean they are harmless or suitable for everyone, but the effect cannot simply be dismissed as placebo. Lithium was more effective than placebo in preventing relapse in long term trials. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14754766/?utm_source=chatgpt.com There are also interesting findings from areas with naturally occurring trace lithium in drinking water, where some studies found lower suicide rates. That is not hard proof, but it adds to the evidence that lithium has effects beyond placebo. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32716281/?utm_source=chatgpt.com The real debate is who benefits, who is harmed, how long they should be used, and whether the person is properly screened and followed up. Saying there is no evidence at all is simply not true.
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