I am having very bad side effects of taking Lithium for bipolar disorder type I.
I am having very bad nause and vomiting on 1200 mg of Lithium. I also am having eczema (very dry skin with blisters), swelling of hands and feet so bad that I almost couldn't get my wedding ring off(and it's usually loose), I have very strong unpleasant body odor so that I'm taking two showers everyday because I cannot stand how I smell, dry mouth with metallic taste that doesn't go away. What else can I take, that won't give me these side effects? I just think that my body doesn't tolerate this drug.
What drug can I safely take for Bipolar disorder I, besides Lithium?
- Posted:
- 21 Feb 2011 by tdstoughton
- Topics:
- mania, bipolar disorder, vomiting, dry skin, lithium, eczema, side effect, blister, skin
Answers (2)
21 Feb 2011
I can only speak for my own experiences, but I was diagnosed Bipolar-2 10 years ago and have been a guinea pig for all those years being put on almost every medication on the market. About 3 months ago I was put on 40mg of Celexa and it turned my life around. I never even knew life could exist this good and have begun to make some profound and extremely positive changes in my life. Not only on the surface but on my very perceptions of my life and how I look at it. I took Lithium for awhile and it was one of the worst experiences of my life. It could never hurt to ask your doctor about Celexa. It changed my life and with a little luck maybe it will change yours. I feel your pain!
22 Feb 2011
Hi there,
I am on Lithium 600mg at bedtime. I have been on higher doses but not 1200mg. I am fine now but the side effects take awhile before they subside. My nephew was on higher doses and could not handle it either. Has your doctor prescribed you slowly the lithium or gave you the dose 1200mg from the beginning. That could make a big difference. Also are you on any other meds. Something new maybe that could do this. Talk to the pharmacist he/she are the best people to ask about meds. Hope this helps you. Take care.
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Wow, Hi I'm Concerned1111 (Christine). Thanks to your answer to someone els's Q; I am so looking forward to trying Celexa.Thank You with all of my heart. I have hope again. Thank you Thank you Thank you. I don't know how to make a friend on here I'm new. I am 45 years old & don't really have in support. Would love to have someone to relate with.