Innovative Wearable Sensor Enables Noninvasive Monitoring of Lithium Levels in Bipolar Disorder Patients

Recent advancements in wearable technology have led to the development of a groundbreaking sensor aimed at transforming the management of bipolar disorder. Lithium, a common medication used to stabilize mood, requires precise dosage monitoring due to its narrow therapeutic window—excessive levels can lead to toxicity affecting kidneys and thyroid, while insufficient levels might render treatment ineffective. Traditionally, measuring lithium involves blood draws, which are inconvenient, painful, and require frequent visits to healthcare facilities.

Addressing these challenges, researchers from the University of Southern California, led by Professor Yasser Khan, introduced a wearable device capable of detecting lithium concentrations through sweat analysis. This innovative system leverages organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs)—electronic components that respond to ionic signals in bodily fluids—to provide real-time, noninvasive lithium monitoring.

The device employs a skin-safe, iontophoresis-based method to induce sweat without physical activity, allowing for quick data collection within minutes. The sweat's lithium content is transmitted seamlessly to a smartphone application, empowering patients to track their medication levels conveniently at home. The entire sensor, including the OECT-based detection system, sweat induction, circuitry, and app, is designed for simple, cost-effective mass production.

In collaboration with clinicians, the team tested the device on patients taking lithium. The wearable's measurements correlated closely with traditional laboratory results, and patients responded positively to the noninvasive approach, which reduces the need for hospital visits. This advancement promises safer, more personalized treatment by enabling continuous monitoring and timely dose adjustments.

Looking forward, the researchers aim to incorporate artificial intelligence to automate and optimize lithium dosing, further enhancing patient safety and treatment efficacy. This pioneering work heralds a new era of mental health management, combining wearable technology with innovative materials science.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-wearable-sensor-patients-bipolar-disorder.html