Uses

Lithium is a naturally occurring mineral which is often administered as a psychotropic drug in salt form. Lithium impacts the flow of sodium in both nerve cells and muscle cells. Due to its sedating effects, lithium is often used as a mood stabilizer. It may also be used to augment and improve the effectiveness of other psychiatric drugs. Common brand names for lithium-based medications include Cibalith-S, Eskalith, Eskalith CR, Lithane, Lithizime, Lithobid, Lithonate, and Lithotabs. Note that, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Eskalith and Eskalith CR are no longer on the market.

Mental Health Conditions Treated with Lithium

Lithium is primarily used to reduce and prevent mania in people experiencing bipolar issues. The exact mechanism by which this drug alleviates manic episodes is currently unknown. Lithium may also be used to treat individuals with suicidal ideation, depression, schizophrenia, impulsivity, disordered eating, cluster headaches, neutropenia, and even certain mental health issues in children. Though lithium may help individuals deal with the symptoms associated with these health conditions, it may not cure the diagnosis.

Lithium FAQs

• How should I take this medication?
  Lithium may be taken as a tablet, extended-release tablet, capsule, powder, syrup, or an oral solution. Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Extended-release tablets are usually taken two to three times per day and should be swallowed whole; avoid biting, chewing, sucking, or crushing these tablets as they are intended to release medicine slowly into the body. Tablets, capsules, powders, syrups, and oral solutions are generally taken three to four times per day. One to three weeks may pass before you begin to experience the full therapeutic effects of this drug. Your doctor may increase or decrease your dosage depending on your response to the medication. Keep taking lithium as directed by your doctor even if you begin to feel consistently healthy. Check the medication guide each time you refill your supply of lithium as new information may have been added.
• What should I do if I forget to take a dose?
  Take the dose you missed as soon as possible. If it is close to the time for your next regular dose, then skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose. Taking too much lithium over a short period of time may lead to an overdose.
• What should I do if I overdose on this medication?
  If you believe you may be overdosing on lithium, contact a poison control center, call your doctor, and seek urgent medical care at once. Lithium overdose is a medical emergency and needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. Signs of overdose may include vomiting, dizziness, diarrhea, frequent urination, disorientation, ringing in the ears, sleepiness, blurred vision, and muscle weakness.
• Who should not take this medication?
  People who display allergic reactions to lithium, or those who are currently taking amifampridine, Cymbalta (duloxetine), Prozac (fluoxetine), or Zoloft (sertraline) should not take lithium-based drugs. Children under the age of 6 should not take this medication. Do not share your medication with any other person, even if he or she has been diagnosed with a similar health issue.
• How can I get the most out of my treatment with Lithium?
  Many of the mental health conditions treated by lithium may also be effectively treated or managed with psychotherapy. If you are taking this medication for bipolar issues, depression, suicidal ideation, schizophrenia or impulsive behavior, consider finding a mental health professional to aid in your treatment. A therapist or counselor may be able to help you understand the experiences you are having and teach you positive coping strategies and practical self-care routines which may result in an overall higher quality of life. For some people, this may contribute to a better, longer-lasting mental health outcome.
• How should I store this medication?
  Keep this and all other drugs out of the reach of young children. Keep this medication tightly sealed in its original container. Store this medication at room temperature, away from excess heat or moisture.