Lithium
Avoid Lithium
Eskalith
Lithobid
Lithium decreases kidney functioning. It is one of the most widely used and studied medications for treating bipolar disorder. Lithium helps reduce the severity and frequency of mania. It may also help relieve or prevent bipolar depression. Lithium acts on a person's central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Lithium affects the flow of sodium through nerve and muscle cells in the body. Sodium affects excitation or mania.
Side Effects
Hand tremor (If tremors are particularly bothersome, an additional medication can help.
Increased thirst
Increased urinaton
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Weight gain
Impaired memory
Poor concentration
Drowsiness
Muscle weakness
Hair loss
Acne
Decreased thyroid function (which can be treated with thyroid hormone)
Decreases kidney functioning
Notify your doctor if you suspect you may have persistent side effects from lithium or if you develop diarrhea,
vomiting, fever, unsteady walking, fainting, confusion, slurred speech, or rapid heart rate. For lithium to
reach its maximum effectiveness, two to three weeks are often required.
