Could a common mineral slow Parkinson's? small trial hints at possibility

NCT ID NCT06339034

Ongoing Disease control Sponsor: State University of New York at Buffalo Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether a low dose of lithium (20 mg/day) can slow disease-related changes in the brain and blood of people with early-stage Parkinson's disease. Twenty participants will receive either lithium or a placebo for a period, and researchers will use MRI scans and blood tests to measure markers of nerve damage and inflammation. The goal is to see if lithium, already used for mood disorders, might be repurposed as a disease-modifying therapy for Parkinson's.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: lithium (dietary supplement)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a way to slow Parkinson's progression using a widely available, low-cost supplement.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early-phase trial testing biomarkers, not symptoms or long-term outcomes. Lithium can affect thyroid and kidney function, and benefits may not materialize.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Parkinson disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

PARKINSON DISEASE

Contacts and locations

Locations

UBMD Neurology

Williamsville, New York, 14221, United States

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