Long-term lithium treatment does not suppress hibernation in European hamsters.

European hamsters were fed LiCl-supplemented food for a long time before, during and after the hibernating season. Long-term administration of LiCl does not suppress hibernation, which occurs normally during the first part of the experiment. Moreover lithium-treated hibernating hamsters tolerate very high plasma lithium levels. This tolerance is not explained. The results are discussed in relation with the recent theories on the similarities between depression, seasonal affective disorder and hibernation.