Lithium treatment for adolescents with maniac depressive disorders

First intention prevention: Lithium is the first intention preventive treat ment for bipolar disorders. It the most effective choice in this indication and provides the most benefit for the patient, particularly the young pati ent still in the process of maturation. Surveillance: Serum lithium must be monitored regularly. It is important fo r the clinician to be aware of different factors which can modify serum lev els, including disease states or iatrogenic effects related to co-prescript ions. Patient information: Long-term compliance and surveillance, and thus treatm ent efficacy, depend greatly on the quality of the information provided to the patient and his/her family.