Lithium

Lithium - Eskalith - Lithobid

Lithium, sold under brand names such as Eskalith and Lithobid, is a naturally occurring substance in the body. Lithium acts to reduce the amount of chemicals in the body that cause things such as excitation or mania. For this reason, Lithium is used as a commercial drug in the treatment of manic episodes of manic-depressive illness. Primarily this is due to the fact that Lithium helps to prevent and control symptoms of mania such as hyperactivity, rushed speech, poor judgment, reduced need for sleep, aggression, and anger.

Lithium is also actively prescribed to treat people with bipolar disorder (extreme mood changes from depression or anger to elation). Lithium is also used to treat certain blood disorders, cluster headaches, premenstrual tension, bulimia, alcoholism, syndrome of inappropriate secretion of ADH, tardive dyskinesia, hyperthyroidism, postpartum affective psychosis, and corticosteroid-induced psychosis. It is generally taken as a capsule or extended release tablet. Always take the exact amount of Lithium as prescribed by your doctor and don’t stop taking Lithium prior to discussing that matter with your doctor. As with most drugs, never crush Lithium into a powder and consume it through that method.

Side effects are generally a common occurrence when taking Lithium. However, the majority of the side effects are mild and not of any immediate serious concern. The mild side effects can include drowsiness, upset stomach, bloating, stomach pains, headache, and weight gain. More serious side effects that your doctor should be notified immediately of include weakness, tiredness, fever, diarrhea, confusion, vomiting, and seizures. If a side effect becomes severe or does not go away, it is important to notify your doctor.

Although Lithium is indeed a naturally occurring substance in the body and is generally safe to take as prescribed, these side effects should still be watched closely. It is important not to take more Lithium than is prescribed by your doctor, notify the doctor of any conditions you might have or other medications you are taking, and to watch for the serious side effects that have been known to be caused by taking Lithium. Serious complications are rare but they still can occur.

Prior to taking Lithium, it is important to be aware of and notify your doctor if you have certain conditions. These conditions include heart disease, kidney disease, thyroid disease, or if you are pregnant. Taking Lithium with these conditions or while taking certain other medications can lead to serious complications.