Effect of lithium carbonate on zidovudine-associated neutropenia in the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

The acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is caused by infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Currently, the only licensed agent shown to be effective in prolonging life in symptomatic patients infected with HIV is zidovudine (azidothymidine, AZT, 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine). Zidovudine is, however, associated with significant side effects. Lithium carbonate has been shown to cause sustained leukocytosis and neutrophilia in hematologically normal patients with psychiatric disease. The authors report the effects of lithium on neutropenia associated with zidovudine therapy in five patients with AIDS.