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Lithium Carbonate & Side Effects

Since 1949, lithium carbonate has been the medication of choice for the treatment of manic depression, and has also been used for severe depression. It decreases the frequency and intensity of mood swings characteristic of mania. This helps many enjoy a more rewarding life; however, there are a number of issues to be aware of.

  1. Inform Your Doctor

    • Before taking lithium, let your doctor know if you had epileptic seizures, or have impaired kidney or liver function, heart or circulation problems, diabetes or an overactive thyroid gland.

    Dosage

    • Your prescription is best suited for you, so contact your physician before altering the dosage. Generally, doses are taken two to four times a day with meals for a daily total of about 900 to 2,400 mg for tablets or capsules, or averaging 48 mEq for the oral solution.

    Interactions

    • Lithium interacts with many drugs, so do not take it with other prescription or over-the-counter drugs without first checking with your doctor.

    Side Effects

    • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and tremors are the most common side effects. Less frequent are drowsiness, lethargy, excessive thirst and urination, loss of appetite, thyroid insufficiency, blurred vision, rashes, dental issues, electrocardiographic abnormalities, an increase of white blood cells and the slowing of the formation of red blood cells.

    Pregnancy and Nursing

    • Lithium might cause birth defects in unborn children, and is prescribed only when the benefit to the mother outweighs risks to the baby. It will pass into breast milk, resulting in poor muscle tone and breathing difficulties for the infant.

    Diet

    • Sodium affects lithium levels in the blood, so avoid sudden increases or reductions of salt. Also, drinking large amounts of tea, coffee or other diuretics might cause lithium to build up.

    Other Concerns

    • Avoid driving and hazardous work until you adapt to the medication. Eliminate alcohol, since it might increase the sedative effects of the drug. Dosages are reduced for those over 60 because there is a likely increase of adverse effects.

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