The purpose of this study was to review the use of lithium in pregnancy and its 
effects on the neonate. This was a case study and review of the published 
literature. Lithium is commonly used in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, 
specifically bipolar depression. Bipolar disorders that require treatment with 
lithium demand special consideration when the woman becomes pregnant. Reported 
neonatal problems with maternal lithium therapy include Ebstein's anomaly, poor 
respiratory effort and cyanosis, rhythm disturbances, nephrogenic diabetes 
insipidus, thyroid dysfunction, hypoglycemia, hypotonia and lethargy, 
hyperbilirubinemia, and large-for-gestational-age infants. Lithium can have 
adverse effects on the fetus and newborn infant, but data suggest normal 
behavioral patterns in childhood.