What is the primary use of lithium in treatment?

Lithium is primarily used in the treatment of bipolar disorder. It is particularly effective in stabilizing mood and reducing the frequency and severity of manic episodes, which are hallmark features of this condition. By affecting neurotransmitter activity and modulating mood-regulating pathways in the brain, lithium helps to alleviate both manic and depressive episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder.

While lithium has historically been used in various mental health conditions, its most well-established and evidence-based application is for managing bipolar disorder. It is considered a first-line treatment for this disorder and has been used for decades due to its efficacy in reducing the risk of relapse in both manic and depressive phases.

The other conditions like major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, and generalized anxiety disorder may involve different treatment strategies and medications that are more suited to their specific symptoms and mechanisms. For instance, antidepressants are typically the mainstay for major depressive disorder, while antipsychotics are used for schizophrenia. Generalized anxiety disorder is often treated with SSRIs or anxiolytics, not lithium. This highlights the targeted nature of lithium's primary use.