Lithium Pill Information

Lithium (Eskalith^®, Eskalith CR^®, Lithobid^®) is a prescription drug licensed for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Specifically, it is approved to treat manic episodes and to prevent episodes of mania or depression.

 

At this time, it is not entirely clear how lithium works. The medication may affect various chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters, which could explain its effectiveness in treating bipolar disorder. Although lithium cannot cure the mental illness, it can help control symptoms of the condition.

 

Before you take lithium, information concerning the safety of the medication should be discussed with your healthcare provider. In order to help minimize risks, make sure to talk to your healthcare provider before using any lithium products if you have heart disease, kidney disease, or hyponatremia (low sodium levels in your blood). You should also tell him or her about all other prescription and non-prescription drugs you are taking, to help prevent drug interactions.