Emerging research suggests that lithium treatment could help preserve or even restore the hippocampus in individuals with bipolar disorder. This  brain region is critical for memory, learning, and emotional regulation. People with bipolar disorder often show reduced hippocampal volume, which is associated with both cognitive and mood-related symptoms.

A review of 13 MRI studies found that patients with bipolar disorder taking lithium had larger hippocampal volumes than those not using the medication. Notably, lithium-treated patients often had hippocampal volumes similar to healthy individuals, suggesting that lithium may help normalize structural brain changes caused by the disorder.

Some of the strongest findings came from studies that examined treatment duration. Individuals with long-term lithium use showed greater hippocampal volume increases than those on short-term regimens or no lithium at all. This supports the idea that lithium’s neuroprotective effects are cumulative, becoming more apparent with sustained use.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you live with bipolar disorder, long-term lithium treatment may help protect the structure of your brain, particularly in areas involved in mood regulation and memory. 

While not all studies showed the same results, the overall trend points toward a potential brain-preserving benefit of lithium. As always, any treatment decisions should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider.