Lithium succinate

Lithium succinate is a chemical compound used in various medical and industrial applications. It is a salt of lithium, a soft, silver-white metal, and succinic acid, a dicarboxylic acid.

Chemical Properties

Lithium succinate is a white, crystalline solid. It is soluble in water and has a molecular formula of C4H4LiO4. The compound is formed by the reaction of lithium hydroxide or lithium carbonate with succinic acid.

Medical Uses

In the field of medicine, lithium succinate is used in the treatment of bipolar disorder and related mood disorders. Lithium compounds have been found to stabilize mood and prevent the occurrence of manic and depressive episodes. Lithium succinate is also used in topical creams and ointments for the treatment of various skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis.

Industrial Uses

In industry, lithium succinate is used as a catalyst in the production of polymers and resins. It is also used in the manufacture of lithium batteries, due to its ability to improve the performance and lifespan of these devices.

Safety and Precautions

Like all lithium compounds, lithium succinate should be handled with care. It can cause skin and eye irritation, and ingestion or inhalation can lead to lithium toxicity, which can cause a range of symptoms from nausea and vomiting to tremors and kidney damage.

See Also

• Lithium
• Succinic acid
• Bipolar disorder
• Eczema
• Psoriasis