Lithium fingerprick testing feasibility trial
This study is exploring a new way to check lithium levels using a simple finger-prick test for people managing depression or bipolar disorder. Lithium is a vital treatment, but needs regular blood tests to make sure it's safe. Right now, many people don't get these tests as often as recommended. The new finger-prick test gives results within minutes, instead of weeks. Researchers want to see if this quicker method is easy to use and acceptable to patients and doctors. This first step will help them understand if this new testing could eventually improve how lithium is monitored and ultimately lead to better health for people taking it.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Mood disorders, like depression and bipolar disorder, are serious conditions that can cause extreme highs (mania) or lows (depression). Lithium is often the best medicine for these conditions, but it's important to keep track of the amount in your blood to make sure it's working safely. This usually means having regular blood tests.
However, it's been found that about half of people taking lithium don't get these blood tests as often as recommended. This study wants to try a new type of test, called a 'point-of-care' test. This test is done using a small finger-prick, much like how people check blood sugar, and you get the results in minutes, not weeks. This could be much better than the current system, where people often wait a long time for results, and sometimes don't even hear about them.
The main goal of this study is to find out if this new finger-prick test system is practical and easy to use. Researchers will look at how many people take part and stay in the study, and if they like using the new system. They also want to see if it changes how medicines are used, affects people's quality of life, or how often they use healthcare services. This will help them understand if the finger-prick test could eventually lead to better health for people taking lithium.
Key takeaways
- Exploring a faster, finger-prick test for lithium.
- Aimed at people with depression or bipolar disorder taking lithium.
- Compares new test to usual blood tests over 6 months.
- Participation involves questionnaires and appointments (online or in person).
- Funded by a UK government research body (NIHR).
Who may be eligible?
You might be able to take part in this study if you are an adult, aged 18 or over. You need to have been diagnosed with a mood disorder, like depression or bipolar disorder, and currently be taking lithium as part of your treatment.
Crucially, you should also be due for your regular lithium blood tests every three months over the next six months. This means you would normally have three blood tests during the study period.
However, you won't be able to join if your doctor is planning to change your lithium treatment during the study time, or if you are currently experiencing very strong manic symptoms.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you have a diagnosis of a mood disorder (like depression or bipolar disorder)?
- Are you currently taking lithium medicine?
- Are you due for lithium blood tests every 3 months for the next 6 months?
- Is your doctor planning NO changes to your lithium medicine in the next 6 months?
What does participation involve?
If you join the study, it will last for 6 months. You'll be randomly put into one of two groups: one group will use the new finger-prick testing, and the other will continue with the usual blood tests. You won't get to choose which group you're in.
During the 6 months, there will be three meetings with the research team. These calls can happen either online (by video call) or in person, depending on what's best for you. If you're in the finger-prick test group, these tests would be done at your usual clinic or doctor's office. You will also be asked to complete questionnaires about your mood and general health.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (3)
- NIHR South London and Maudsley Clinical Research Facility at King'sCity onlyLondon, United Kingdom
- Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyNewcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- West London NHS TrustApproximateLondon, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is lithium and why do I need regular tests?
Lithium is a medicine that helps manage mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder. Regular tests are needed to make sure the amount of lithium in your blood is safe and effective.
What is a 'finger-prick test' for lithium?
It's a new way to check your lithium level using a tiny drop of blood from your finger, similar to how some people check their blood sugar. The results are ready very quickly.
Will I definitely get the new finger-prick test if I join?
No, if you join, you'll be randomly assigned to either get the new finger-prick test or continue with your usual blood tests for six months. You won't get to choose.
Where does the study take place?
The study runs in some NHS locations around London and Newcastle. However, all your research meetings can be done online. Any finger-prick tests would happen at your usual clinic.
Who is paying for this study?
The study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) in the UK.
How to find out more
. Study Team
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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