Though it has side effects, these can generally be kept to a minimum by starting with a low dose and gradually increasing to the desired strength. Lithium helps reduce the severity and frequency of mania. If so, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Common side effects of lithium can include:Famous people who have this condition.© 2005 - 2019 WebMD LLC. Lithium Side Effects About 75% of people who take lithium for bipolar disorder have some side effects, although they may be minor. Symptoms of lithium toxicity can include diarrhea, vomiting, tremor, lack of coordination, drowsiness, or muscle weakness. As a result, it may be prescribed for long periods of time (even between episodes) as maintenance therapy. Please try again.Dealing with racing thoughts? most people who take lithium -- about 75% -- have some side effects, although they may be minor. Symptoms of Lithium-Induced Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus. Some people who take lithium have low levels of thyroid hormone, which can affect symptoms of bipolar disorder.
These effects can be common. Your doctor can give you some tips and tricks to help you deal with the side effects for those first few weeks until your system adjusts.
All rights reserved.WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.You will receive your first newsletter with our next scheduled circulation!If you miss a dose of lithium, take it as soon as you remember it -- unless the next scheduled dose is within two hours (or six hours for slow-release forms). About 5% of patients on lithium develop lithium-induced NDI 4 … If you … Our guide offers strategies to help you or your loved one live better with bipolar disorder. Sign up for our newsletter and get it free.You may have to take lithium for several weeks before you notice that it helps. they may become less troublesome after a few weeks as your body adjusts to the drug. Notify your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any of the following side effects of lithium:Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up.There has been renewed interest in the use of lithium recently because of its tolerability and effectiveness. Although increased thirst and increased urine output are very common side effects of lithium, it's important to tell your doctor if you have them. If you notice any other side effects, check with your doctor.There was an error. Always feeling tired? Studies show that lithium can significantly reduce suicide risk. Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid) is one of the most widely used and studied medications for treating bipolar disorder. It may also help relieve or prevent bipolar depression. Most side effects go away with treatment and many people stay on low doses of lithium for years with success.Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital.If you experience side effects that do not go away after a time, talk to your doctor about lowering your dose of lithium. Many patients will still do very well on a lower dose of lithium, and without the side effects.Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. Lithium also helps prevent future manic and depressive episodes.