Lithium (
Eskalith®, Eskalith CR
®,
Lithobid®) is a naturally occurring element, like potassium or
calcium. Many people may wonder, "What is lithium used for?"
As a medication, lithium is used for treating
bipolar disorder. Although it is not a cure for the mental illness, it can be used to control manic episodes. It is also approved as a "maintenance treatment," which is a long-term treatment to help prevent episodes of mania or
depression.
Lithium 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). Currently, all lithium products are available in generic forms.
(Click Lithium for more information on what lithium is, to find out how this medicine works, and to learn about the potential side effects of this drug.)
