Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to lithium.
Lithium is used to treat and prevent episodes of mania (frenzied, abnormally excited mood) in people with bipolar disorder (manic-depressive disorder; a disease that causes episodes of depression, episodes of mania, and other abnormal moods). Lithium is in a class of medications called antimanic agents. It works by decreasing abnormal activity in the brain.
Lithium comes as a tablet, capsule, extended-release (long-acting) tablet, and solution (liquid) to take by mouth. The tablets, capsules, and solution are usually taken three to four times a day. The extended-release tablets are usually taken two to three times a day. Take lithium at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take lithium exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Swallow the extended-release tablet whole; do not split, chew, or crush it.
Your doctor may increase or decrease the dose of your medication during your treatment. Follow these directions carefully.
Lithium may help to control your condition but will not cure it. It may take 1 to 3 weeks or longer for you to feel the full benefit of lithium. Continue to take lithium even if you feel well. Do not stop taking lithium without talking to your doctor.
Lithium is also sometimes used to treat certain blood disorders, depression, schizophrenia (a mental illness that causes disturbed or unusual thinking, loss of interest in life, and strong or inappropriate emotions), disorders of impulse control (inability to resist the urge to perform a harmful action), and certain mental illnesses in children. Talk to your doctor about the risks of using this medication for your condition.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
It is important to follow a proper diet, including the right amounts of fluid and salt during your treatment. Your doctor will give you specific directions about the diet that is right for you. Follow these directions carefully.
Talk to your doctor about drinking drinks that contain caffeine, such as tea, coffee, cola, or chocolate milk.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
restlessness
fine hand movements that are difficult to control
loss of appetite
stomach pain or bloating
gas
indigestion
weight gain or loss
dry mouth
excessive saliva in the mouth
tongue pain
change in the ability to taste food
swollen lips
acne
hair loss
unusual discomfort in cold temperatures
constipation
depression
joint or muscle pain
thin, brittle fingernails or hair
tiredness
shaking of a part of your body that you cannot control
muscle weakness, stiffness, twitching, or tightness
loss of coordination
diarrhea
vomiting
excessive thirst
frequent urination
giddiness
ringing in the ears
slow, jerky movements
movements that are unusual or difficult to control
blackouts
seizures
slurred speech
fast, slow, irregular, or pounding heartbeat
chest tightness
confusion
hallucinations (seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist)
crossed eyes
painful, cold, or discolored fingers and toes
headache
pounding noises inside the head
changes in vision
paleness
itching
rash
swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, throat, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
Lithium may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms while you are taking this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
diarrhea
vomiting
nausea
drowsiness
muscle weakness
loss of coordination
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Last Reviewed - 09/01/2010
AHFS® Consumer Medication Information. © Copyright, 2012. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.