What is Lithium ?

Lithium is a mood-stabilizing agent primarily used to treat bipolar disorder, effectively managing and preventing the extreme mood swings associated with this condition. It functions by modulating the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, helping to stabilize emotional responses and behavior. Due to its narrow therapeutic range, lithium prescribing requires careful monitoring of blood levels and kidney and thyroid function.

• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat
• Diarrhea, vomiting, tremors, or drowsiness
• Fever
• Confusion, problems with walking or balance, muscle movements you cannot control
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Change in how much or how often you urinate

• It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.
• Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems, heart or blood vessel disease (including Brugada syndrome), brain or nerve problems, or thyroid problems.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:Lithium toxicityHeart problemsKidney problemsBrain problems (including encephalopathic syndrome, pseudotumor cerebri)Serotonin syndrome (when used with certain medicines)
• Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.
• Maintain adequate fluid intake, salt intake, and a normal diet, especially during the stabilization period.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.