Lithium Citrate

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Cat Number

API0232122

CAS Number

919-16-4

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Product Detail Description Customer Q&A

CAS Number

919-16-4

EINECS

612-032-8

Storage

Store at room temperature

Synonyms

Lithium Citrate (anhydrous); anhydrous lithium citrate; CHEBI:64735; Lithium (as citrate); CHEBI:64754; NSC-758700; Li-liquid

Molecular Formula

C6H5Li3O7

Molecular Weight

210

Smiles

[Li+].[Li+].[Li+].C(C(=O)[O-])C(CC(=O)[O-])(C(=O)[O-])O

Appearance

White crystalline powder

Melting Point

105°C (dec.)

Boiling Point

309.6°C at 760 mmHg

Relative Density

1.12

General Description

Lithium citrate is the citric acid salt of the alkali metal lithium, formulated as a salt with three lithium cations per molecule (Li3C6H5O7). The citrate moiety enhances water solubility compared to lithium carbonate, making it suitable for liquid preparations. Lithium is the smallest monovalent cation and has unique properties as a mood stabilizer. The citrate salt does not alter the pharmacological activity of lithium but provides a more soluble, less irritating form for oral solutions.

Mechanism of Action

The precise mechanism of lithium is not fully understood but involves multiple effects: inhibition of inositol monophosphatase and depletion of inositol, disruption of phosphoinositide signaling; inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β); modulation of neurotransmitter release (increasing GABA, reducing glutamate); and neuroprotective effects via brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) upregulation. Lithium also alters sodium and calcium channel function and affects gene expression related to circadian rhythms.

Application

Lithium citrate is indicated for the treatment of acute manic episodes and maintenance therapy of bipolar I disorder. It also reduces the risk of suicide in patients with mood disorders. Off-label uses include treatment-resistant depression (as augmentation to antidepressants), cluster headache prophylaxis, and neutropenia. Lithium has a narrow therapeutic index; serum concentrations must be monitored. The citrate salt is less commonly used than carbonate.

Does Lithium Citrate require protection from moisture during storage?

Yes, it is hygroscopic and readily absorbs moisture, leading to clumping and potential deliquescence. Store in tightly sealed, moisture-proof containers with desiccant.

What is the recommended storage temperature for Lithium Citrate?

Store at controlled room temperature (15-25°C). Avoid excessive heat above 30°C, which can cause loss of water of hydration and alter dissolution properties.

Is Lithium Citrate stable in oral solution formulations?

Aqueous solutions are stable but require preservatives (e.g., parabens) to prevent microbial growth.

How is the lithium ion content and related citrate impurities monitored?

Lithium content is measured by atomic absorption or ion chromatography; citrate-related impurities are quantified using a validated HPLC method for organic acids.