The Medical journal of Australia
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To analyse the annual incidence of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) associated with lithium-induced nephropathy (LiN) in Australia. ⋯ Rates of ESRD attributed to LiN are increasing rapidly. Currently accepted lithium dosages and duration of treatment might induce ESRD in a large cohort of patients. We encourage clinicians to exercise discretion when prescribing lithium, check renal function regularly, stop lithium if there is a deterioration in two consecutive readings, and consider substitution with other drugs.