Lithium-induced nephrogenic diabetes insipidus

The etiology, diagnosis and management of lithium-induced diabetes insipidus (LIDI) is discussed, including the presentation of a case report. It is suggested that lithium provokes LIDI by decreasing the responsive ness of the kidney to the antidiuretic hormone. Lithium-induced polyuria may be managed by concomitant treatment with a thiazide diuretic or discontinuation of the lithium. Caution must be employed, however, when using thiazides with lithium as these diuretics decrease renal clearance of lithium.