Common Use

Lithium is prescribed to manage the manic episodes associated with manic depression. Symptoms of mania include hyperactivity, rapid speech, impaired judgment, reduced need for sleep, aggression, and anger. Additionally, lithium helps prevent or reduce the severity of future manic episodes.

Dosage and Direction

Take this medication orally, typically 3-4 times daily or as directed by your doctor. To minimize stomach discomfort, take lithium with or immediately after meals. Ensure you drink 8 to 12 glasses (240 milliliters each) of water or other fluids daily. Maintain a balanced diet with normal sodium levels as advised by your doctor or dietitian while on this medication.

Precautions

Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies to lithium or other substances before starting treatment. If you are scheduled for surgery, notify your doctor or surgeon that you are taking lithium. This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness or clear vision until you are certain you can do so safely. Limit alcohol consumption.

Lithium is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the unborn baby, such as heart problems or birth defects. Consult your doctor for further details.

Contraindications

Before taking lithium, inform your doctor if you have:

• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Under-active thyroid
• A severe or debilitating medical condition
• Dehydration or low sodium levels in the blood (hyponatremia)

Lithium can harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without your doctor's approval if you are pregnant. Notify your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use effective birth control while taking lithium.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include drowsiness, tiredness, increased thirst, frequent urination, weight gain, and mild hand tremors. These symptoms typically subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or worsen, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rare but serious side effects such as fainting, vision changes (e.g., blind spots, vision loss), seizures, irregular heartbeat, joint pain or swelling, discolored or painful fingers or toes, or cold hands and feet.

Drug Interaction

Do not start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor or pharmacist first. Lithium should not be used with sibutramine due to the risk of severe interactions.

Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription and non-prescription medications or herbal products you are using, especially:

• Acetazolamide
• ACE inhibitors
• Angiotensin receptor blockers
• Bulk-producing laxatives
• Calcitonin
• Calcium channel blockers
• Desmopressin
• Other mental health medications
• Methyldopa
• Metronidazole
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Anti-seizure medications
• SSRI antidepressants
• Theophylline
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide)

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless your next dose is due within 4 hours. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Overdose

Seek emergency medical help if you suspect an overdose. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, muscle weakness, tremors, lack of coordination, blurred vision, or ringing in the ears.

Storage

Store lithium at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Do not keep it in the bathroom. Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

This information provides general guidance about medications and does not cover all possible directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your needs. We disclaim any liability for the accuracy of this information or any damages resulting from its use or self-treatment.