Question
I have bipolar disorder and have recently been diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Are the two conditions related in some way?
Answer
Bipolar disorder and hypothyroidism are not related. But lithium — a common bipolar disorder treatment — can interfere with production of thyroid hormone and lead to hypothyroidism in some people. If you are on long-term lithium therapy for bipolar disorder, your doctor will likely recommend periodic blood tests to evaluate your thyroid function.
Last Updated: 01/25/2007
