Lithium is made by a number of different manufacturers
(see Generic Lithium).
Lithium is a naturally occurring element, like potassium or
calcium. In the 1800s, scientists thought that lithium might be an effective treatment for gout, although it was found to be ineffective for this use. Later, in the 1940s, it was used as a salt substitute, until it was withdrawn from the market due to several deaths that were caused by
lithium toxicity. Later, it was discovered that lithium works for mania. In 1970, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the medication for the treatment of
bipolar disorder.
The exact way in which the drug works to treat bipolar disorder is not known. Lithium may affect various chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters, which could explain the its effectiveness in treating bipolar disorder. The medication is not a cure for the condition, however -- it only helps to control symptoms
(see Bipolar Disorder Symptoms).
When and How to Take Lithium
The following are some general considerations for when and how to take lithium:
- The medication comes in several different forms, including regular tablets, extended-release tablets, capsules, and a syrup. It is taken by mouth, usually two to four times a day, depending on the lithium dosage and the particular product.
- You can take lithium with or without food. If the medication bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- Extended-release tablets (Lithobid) should not be chewed, crushed, or broken. They should be swallowed whole.
- Lithium should be taken at the same times each day to maintain an even level in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Lithium will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose of lithium your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- How you respond to the medication
- The particular product being used
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be taking.
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with lithium. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can be easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects include but are not limited to:
- Diarrhea
- Drowsiness
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting.
(Click Lithium Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
You can also read more about specific side effects in the following eMedTV articles:
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking It?
Talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking lithium if you have:
- Kidney disease, including kidney failure (renal failure)
- Heart disease
- Dehydration
- Low sodium levels in your blood (hyponatremia)
- Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
You should also make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take too much lithium may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Diarrhea and vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Muscle weakness
- Coordination problems
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Increased urination
- Shakiness (especially in the hands)
- Thirst.
If you happen to overdose on the drug, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Lithium Be Stored?
Lithium should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. It should also be stored in an airtight container.
Keep lithium and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your lithium as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose. Make sure to tell your healthcare provider if you miss any lithium doses, especially if the level in your blood is being monitored.
Lithium is available in the following strengths and forms:
- Lithium carbonate 150 mg capsules
- Lithium carbonate 300 mg capsules (Eskalith)
- Lithium carbonate 600 mg capsules
- Lithium carbonate 300 mg tablets
- Lithium carbonate 300 mg extended-release tablets (Lithobid)
- Lithium carbonate 450 mg extended-release tablets (Eskalith CR)
- Lithium citrate syrup, containing 8 mEq lithium per 5 mL, which is equivalent to 300 mg lithium carbonate per 5 mL or per teaspoonful.
Currently, all lithium products are available in generic forms
(see Generic Lithium for more information).
