Exploring how lithium affects suicide prevention in young people with bipolar disorder in China

Investigating the Effects of Lithium Carbonate on Suicide and Self-harm in Adolescents and Young Adults With Bipolar Disorder in China

Observational Peking University · NCT06424613

This study looks at whether lithium can help prevent suicidal thoughts and self-harm in young people with bipolar disorder in China.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment600 (estimated)
Ages12 Years to 45 Years
SexAll
SponsorPeking University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Beijing, Beijing Municipality)
Trial IDNCT06424613 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the impact of lithium carbonate on suicidal ideation and self-harm events among adolescents and young adults diagnosed with bipolar disorder in China. Utilizing a retrospective cohort approach, the study aims to assess the effectiveness of lithium in preventing suicide attempts, non-suicidal self-injury, and aggressive behaviors. Participants will be divided into two groups: those receiving lithium and those on non-lithium medications, with a focus on adherence and mental health assessments. The study seeks to provide insights into the role of lithium in managing severe mental health challenges in this demographic.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adolescents and young adults aged 12-45 with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder who meet specific inclusion criteria.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been diagnosed with bipolar disorder or those who have not used lithium in the past year may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved suicide prevention strategies for adolescents and young adults with bipolar disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the use of lithium in reducing suicidal ideation in bipolar disorder, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

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1 For Lithium group

1. Aged 12-45 years (adolescents 12-17, young adults 18-45).
2. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder using the the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) (M.I.N.I.; version 5.0) based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition (DSM-IV) criteria.
3. Adolescents diagnosed using the M.I.N.I. Kid version.
4. Lithium medication adherence of at least 80% in the first six months over the past year.
5. Not in an acute phase of illness.
6. Patient or guardian able to participate in assessment interviews.
7. Informed consent signed by participants and guardians (for adolescents).

2 for Non-lithium group

1. Aged 12-45 years (adolescents 12-17, young adults 18-45).
2. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.; version 5.0) based on DSM-IV criteria.
3. Adolescents diagnosed using the M.I.N.I. Kid version.
4. No lithium use over the past year.
5. Not in an acute phase of illness.
6. Patient or guardian able to participate in assessment interviews.
7. Informed consent signed by participants and guardians (for adolescents).

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Severe physical illness or active substance abuse.
2. Severe cognitive impairments, including developmental delays or dementia.

Where this trial is running

Beijing, Beijing Municipality

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Bipolar DisorderSuicidal IdeationSuicide, AttemptedNonsuicidal Self InjuryLithiumBipolar disorderSuicide
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.