Lithium augmentation of combined neuroleptic-tricyclic treatment in delusional depression

Recent clinical studies have reported rapid improvement following administration of lithium to depressed patients who are unresponsive to tricyclic antidepressants. The clinical value of lithium augmentation would be greatest in subtypes of depression refractory to tricyclic treatment, such as delusional depression. The authors describe the results of a preliminary study of lithium augmentation in six patients with delusional depression who were unresponsive to combined neuroleptic-tricyclic treatment. Of the six, three had a dramatic response, two had a more gradual response, and one was unresponsive. The authors discuss alternative mechanisms of lithium action in these patients.