lithium gluconate

Lithium gluconate is a lithium salt utilized both topically and systemically for various therapeutic applications. In dermatology, it is most recognized as an 8% topical gel (Lithioderm) for the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis, where it exerts anti-inflammatory and potential antifungal effects against *Malassezia* species. Its mechanism of action involves the inhibition of enzymes such as inositol monophosphatase, which disrupts phosphoinositol signaling, as well as the inhibition of adenylyl cyclase and Na/K ATPase. At the cellular level, lithium gluconate modulates the innate immune response in keratinocytes by downregulating the expression of Toll-like receptors (TLR2 and TLR4) and stimulating the production of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10. Historically, it was administered orally for psychiatric conditions like bipolar disorder and cyclothymia, and it has been investigated for orphan indications such as Canavan disease and hyperthyroidism.

Brand names

Lithioderm

Other names

lithium D-gluconatelithium gluconate anhydrous