Grof, P. et al. Journal of Affective Disorders (2000) (full text).

This study suggests that women with bipolar disorder may have fewer episodesof illness while pregnant.

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This is a study by Kiki Chang, M.D., et al which discusses the amygdala's prominent role in emotion processing and response.The amygdala was found to be smaller in BD adolescents, and larger in adults taking lithium.

Study on the effects of lithium and divalproex sodium on thryoid-stimulating hormone (THS) levels in children and adolescents with bipolar disorders and risk factors associated with lithium-induced hypothryoidism.

News article discussing the pros and cons in the use of lithium to treat a variety of disorders.

This research report, by Vivian Kafantaris, M.D., et al,  analyzes the use of  lithium in treatment of acute mania in adolescents. Based on the trial, lithium appears to be effective for accute stabilization of the symptoms. Additional controlled studies are needed.

Article discusses the use of Lithium and Divalproex Sodium being effective treatment for some juveniles with bipolar disorders.  By Robert Findling, et al.

by Kowatch, Robert A. M.D.; Suppes, Trisha M.D., Ph.D.; Carmody, Thomas J. Ph.D.; Bucci, John P. M.A.; Hume, Judith H. M.S.; Kromelis, Michelle R.PH.; Emslie, Graham J. M.D.; Weinberg, Warren A. M.D.; Rush, A. John M.D.

Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Copyright 2000 © American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Volume 39(6), June 2000, pp. 713-720

Objective: To develop effect sizes for 3 mood stabilizers-lithium, divalproex sodium, and carbamazepine-for the acute-phase treatment of bipolar I or II disorder, mixed or manic episode, in children and adolescents aged 8 to 18 years.
Method: Forty-two outpatients with a mean age of 11.4 years (20 with bipolar I disorder and 22 with bipolar II disorder) were randomly assigned to 6 weeks of open treatment with either lithium, divalproex sodium, or carbamazepine. The primary efficacy measures were the weekly Clinical Global Impression Improvement scores and the Young Mania Rating Scale (Y-MRS).

This study took place over a six week period with adolescent subjects diagnosed with bipolar disorder and substance dependence.  Average age of bipolar disorder onset was 9.6 years; average age of substance dependence was 15.3 years.  For the purposes of this short-term study, lithium was shown to be a useful treatment for adolescents suffering from both disorders. (August 1997)