Matthew J. Armstrong, Anthony E. Valenzuela, and Pamela J. Lein explore the use of lithium supplements to prevent Alzheimer’s disease and whether this approach is a poisoned chalice

Globally, an estimated 55 million people live with Alzheimer’s disease, a number expected to exceed 152 million by 2050. Alzheimer’s is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease and the most common form of dementia. There are no cures for Alzheimer’s, and currently available treatments only modestly slow disease progression. Identifying effective therapeutics has been difficult because while genetic factors contribute to Alzheimer’s, cases with single causative mutations are rare (1-5%).

Rather, most cases of Alzheimer’s are caused by complex interactions between any number of genetic susceptibilities and environmental factors, like lifestyle and exposure to pollutants. Because variable genetic and environmental contributions determine individual risk and severity of Alzheimer’s, it may be more appropriate to consider Alzheimer’s as a group of diseases (akin to cancer) in which many types exist, and treatments may be effective in one individual but not another.

Lithium supplements to prevent Alzheimer’s disease

A recent study published by Dr. Liviu Aron and Dr. Bruce Yanker at Harvard Medical School in the journal Nature identified lithium (Li) as a potential treatment for decreasing the time to onset and/or slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s in a mouse model. This report has generated significant interest via online forums, with the findings translated into numerous reports more accessible to laypersons. However, many of the nuances articulated in the original article regarding lithium toxicity have been lost in translation. Given the desperation of many Alzheimer’s patients and their loved ones to find a cure, the easy accessibility to lithium as an over-the- counter supplement has raised significant public health concerns.

While physicians have used various lithium formulations (e.g., lithium carbonate) since the 1800s to treat diverse neurological and psychiatric disorders, such as epilepsy, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and depression, how lithium works to alleviate symptoms of neurological disease is not well understood. In addition, there are serious toxic risks associated with lithium, including adverse neurological, renal, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and endocrine effects, as well as an increased risk of cardiac birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Most notably, approximately 50% of individuals regularly taking lithium develop nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, a potentially serious reduction in the kidney’s ability to concentrate urine that can lead to rapid and severe dehydration. Left untreated, lithium toxicity can be fatal.

When a doctor prescribes lithium, regular blood tests are performed to carefully monitor the blood concentration of Li to prevent toxicity. However, lithium toxicity can occur even with careful medical monitoring.

This is because there is a narrow margin between a safe therapeutic dose and a toxic dose. A 25% increase in dose significantly increases the risk of toxicity; a greater than 67% increase can be life-threatening.

Lithium toxicity risk factors and research

Several factors can modulate the risk of lithium toxicity. For example, the body handles lithium similarly to sodium, which it resembles on a molecular level. Conditions that cause a loss of sodium and water from the body, such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or excessive sweating, can significantly increase lithium reabsorption in the kidneys, thereby increasing the risk of adverse effects.

Drug interactions between lithium and prescription or over-the-counter drugs are also a serious concern. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, like ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin, interact with lithium supplements to elevate lithium levels in the blood. This is also the case for several common drugs that affect kidney function, such as some blood pressure medications (ACE inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers) and diuretics.

Lithium can also affect how other medications work in the body, increasing the risk of adverse effects. For example, combining lithium with antidepressants that increase serotonin in the brain, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. In this condition, serotonin is elevated to life-threatening levels.

To reduce the risk of toxicity associated with lithium, researchers have begun investigating different chemical forms of lithium, including lithium orotate (LiO), that potentially provide improved therapeutic effectiveness at lower doses. While doctors have prescribed lithium carbonate and citrate for decades, LiO is not FDA-approved and cannot be prescribed by physicians; however, it is readily available for purchase over the counter. Currently, only one pre-clinical safety assessment on LiO is available, and there are no clinical safety assessments.

While early research on LiO appears promising, we are far from understanding the benefits and risks of its use as a treatment for Alzheimer’s. The potential dangers of unsupervised lithium supplementation are compounded by the lack of FDA regulation of lithium supplements. Supplements are not rigorously tested for safety pre-market, nor are they approved to prevent, treat, or cure disease. In addition, multiple studies have found that dietary supplements on the market often have much higher or lower doses than advertised, unlisted ingredients, or hazardous heavy-metal contaminants, such as lead.

Does lithium show promise as a potential therapeutic for Alzheimer’s?

Although lithium shows promise as a potential therapeutic for Alzheimer’s in preliminary studies, significant questions remain regarding its efficacy and safety in humans. While neuroprotective effects were observed in mouse models, the models used in the Harvard study represented a rare (1-5% of cases) form of AD; thus, it remains to be determined whether the results generalize to humans or to the other ~95-99% of human cases.

Finally, the long-term safety of LiO has not been established through human studies; moreover, dietary LiO supplements are minimally regulated compared to FDA-approved medications, which must meet safety, purity, and dose-testing standards. The ready availability of LiO as over-the-counter supplements enables consumers to self-administer without medical supervision, dose monitoring, or screening for drug interactions. These dangers outweigh the unknown benefits lithium may have on AD pathology in humans.

Leander, Texas and TOKYO, Japan – Jan.08.2026 “The US and Canada Food Supplement Market reached US$ 41,294.93 million in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 54,511.64 million by 2027, growing with a CAGR of 7.40% during the forecast period 2024-2027.”

The US and Canada Food Supplement Market is driven by rising health consciousness, preventive healthcare trends, aging populations, increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, and growing demand for plant-based and personalized nutrition. The shift toward veganism, clean-label products, and e-commerce accessibility is accelerating incorporation of vitamins, minerals, probiotics, botanicals, and specialty supplements into daily wellness routines across dietary supplements, functional foods, and targeted health applications.

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☛ United States – Recent Industry Developments

✅ December 2025

GNC expanded its food supplement portfolio with clean label vitamins and mineral blends focused on immunity, energy, and active lifestyles. The launch supports rising consumer demand for transparency and science-backed nutrition.

✅ November 2025

Nature Made (Pharmavite) introduced new condition specific supplements targeting heart health and metabolic wellness. The development strengthens preventive healthcare offerings across U.S. retail and pharmacy channels.

✅ October 2025

Nestlé Health Science USA launched advanced nutritional supplements formulated for gut health and healthy aging. The expansion enhances the company’s position in personalized and functional nutrition.

☛ Canada – Recent Industry Developments

✅ December 2025

Jamieson Wellness launched plant-based and sugar free supplement Jelly chews tailored to Canadian consumer preferences. The introduction supports growing demand for vegan and clean-label supplement formats.

✅ November 2025

Herbaland Naturals expanded its functional gummy supplement range focused on immunity and digestive health. The development reflects strong growth in convenient and taste friendly nutrition solutions.

✅ October 2025

Organika Health Products introduced premium herbal and collagen based supplements designed for joint and skin health. The launch strengthens Canada’s position in natural and wellness focused supplementation.

☛ Core Catalysts Behind Market Growth:

Growing popularity of plant-based supplements driven by health consciousness, ethical considerations, environmental concerns, and preference for natural, clean-label products.

Rising aging population increasing demand for preventive healthcare supplements addressing chronic diseases, age related issues like osteoporosis, cardiovascular health, and cognitive decline.

Increasing focus on gut health, immunity, mental wellness, and personalized nutrition amid lifestyle changes and post pandemic health priorities.

Expansion of e-commerce and regulatory support enhancing accessibility, trust, and innovation in supplement formulations.

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☛ Market Segmentation :

By Ingredient :

Vitamins dominate the market with 32% share, driven by widespread use for immunity, energy, and general wellness across all age groups. Botanicals account for 18% share, supported by rising preference for natural and plant-based supplements such as turmeric, ginseng, and herbal extracts. Minerals hold 16% share, fueled by demand for calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc supplements for bone and metabolic health. Protein and amino acids represent 14% share, driven by sports nutrition, muscle recovery, and active lifestyle trends. Omega fatty acids capture 12% share, supported by strong demand for heart, brain, and joint health supplements. Probiotics account for 6% share, benefiting from growing awareness of gut health and immune support. Other ingredients hold 2% share, including enzymes, fibers, and specialty nutraceutical compounds.

By Dosage :

Capsules lead with 34% share, preferred for ease of consumption, precise dosing, and better ingredient stability. Tablets follow with 28% share, driven by cost-effectiveness and widespread availability across retail channels. Liquid supplements hold 17% share, supported by faster absorption and higher adoption among children and seniors. Powders account for 15% share, favored in protein, electrolyte, and functional nutrition products for customizable dosing. Other dosage forms capture 6% share, including Jelly chews, chewables, soft gels, and sprays catering to taste and convenience-focused consumers.

By Application :

Gastrointestinal health dominates with 29% share, driven by increasing cases of digestive disorders, gut microbiome awareness, and probiotic supplementation. Bone and joint health holds 18% share, supported by aging populations and demand for calcium, vitamin D, and collagen supplements. Anti and healthy ageing accounts for 16% share, fueled by demand for antioxidants, cognitive health, and longevity-focused products. Allergies and asthma represent 11% share, driven by rising respiratory conditions and immune support supplements. Vaginal health captures 9% share, supported by growing awareness of women’s intimate health probiotics. Urinary tract health holds 8% share, driven by demand for cranberry based and antimicrobial supplements. Oral health and other applications collectively account for 9% share, including dental, skin, and general wellness supplements.

By Age :

Adults represent the largest segment with 46% share, driven by preventive healthcare adoption, stress management, and lifestyle related supplementation. Seniors account for 28% share, supported by demand for bone health, cardiovascular, immunity, and cognitive supplements. Children hold 18% share, driven by pediatric nutrition, immunity boosters, and flavored supplement formats. Infants account for 8% share, primarily focused on vitamin D, iron, and gut health formulations recommended for early development.

By Distribution Channel :

Pharmacies and drug stores dominate with 31% share, driven by consumer trust, professional recommendations, and wide product availability. Supermarkets and hypermarkets account for 27% share, supported by convenience and bulk purchasing behavior. Online retailers hold 26% share, rapidly expanding due to e-commerce growth, subscription models, and direct to consumer supplement brands. Convenience stores represent 9% share, driven by impulse purchases of energy and immunity supplements. Other distribution channels capture 7% share, including specialty nutrition stores, wellness clinics, and health food outlets.

☛ Competitive Landscape:

The market features intense competition among established multinational brands and specialized players focused on innovation, clean-label, and targeted health solutions.

Pharmavite LLC – Commands an estimated 12% share, leading with Nature Made brand in vitamins and minerals.

Amway (Nutrilite) – Holds about 10% market share, strong in direct-selling and plant-based supplements.

Herbalife – Captures around 9% share, prominent in weight management and nutrition companions.

Jamieson Wellness Inc. – Maintains approximately 8% share, key player in Canadian market with natural health products.

NOW Health Group, Inc. – Secures roughly 7% share through affordable, high quality offerings.

Other Key Players: Procter & Gamble, C&D Consumer Brands, Inc., PanTheryx, Inc., LoveBug Probiotics, Vital Nutrients, The Clorox Company, organika Health Products.

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☛ Regional Analysis:

United States:

The US leads the market with over 90% share, driven by high consumer spending, mature wellness culture, e-commerce penetration, and presence of major brands addressing preventive care and chronic conditions.

Canada:

Canada holds a growing share, supported by strict Natural Health Products Regulations building trust, rising vegan trends, and focus on natural/organic supplements in retail channels.

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