Common Use

Lithobid is a medication used to treat bipolar disorder. It helps stabilize mood, reduce extreme behaviors, and restore the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain.

Dosage and Directions

Take Lithobid by mouth twice a day or as directed by your doctor. It is recommended to take it with or after meals to minimize stomach upset. Do not chew or crush the medication. Drink 8 to 12 glasses of water daily and maintain a healthy diet with normal salt intake.

Precautions

Maintaining the correct level of lithium in your body is crucial. Excessive lithium can cause side effects such as nausea, dizziness, seizures, confusion, increased urination, twitching, slurred speech, hand tremors, and diarrhea. Inform your doctor if you have any allergies or medical conditions before starting this medication.

Contraindications

Notify your doctor if you have kidney or heart disease, hypothyroidism, urinary problems, Parkinson's disease, leukemia, seizures, severe dehydration, infections with high fever, or skin disorders. Lithobid may cause blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring focus. Limit alcohol consumption. Inform your doctor or surgeon if you are scheduled for surgery.

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to this drug. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential risks to the baby.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include weight gain, increased urination, drowsiness, tiredness, and mild hand tremors. If these persist or worsen, contact your doctor. Serious but rare side effects may include diarrhea, dizziness, vomiting, fever, confusion, slurred speech, unsteady walking, blurred vision, or severe hand trembling. Seek immediate medical attention for symptoms like fainting, vision changes, seizures, irregular heartbeat, joint pain, discolored fingers or toes, or cold extremities. A very serious allergic reaction is rare but requires emergency care if symptoms like rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing occur.

Drug Interactions

Do not use Lithobid with sibutramine. Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking, including ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, bulk-producing laxatives, calcitonin, calcium channel blockers, desmopressin, other mental health medications, methyldopa, metronidazole, NSAIDs, anti-seizure drugs, SSRI antidepressants, theophylline, tricyclic antidepressants, and diuretics.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Overdose

In case of suspected overdose, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include drowsiness, diarrhea, vomiting, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, seizures, trouble walking, shaking, or loss of consciousness.

Storage

Store Lithobid at room temperature (59-86°F or 15-30°C), away from moisture and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

The information provided is for general purposes only and does not cover all directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider or doctor for specific instructions tailored to your condition. We are not responsible for any errors or omissions in this information or for any consequences resulting from its use.