I took 600mg lithium carbonate for 1 week. It caused depression so I weaned off. I still feel depressed and am having nausea symptoms a week and a half after my last dose. How long until I feel better?
How long after quitting lithium because of it worsening depression before I feel better?
Question posted by Nadia2000 on 1 July 2024
Last updated on 17 August 2024
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Answers
WildcatVet
1 July 2024
Hi, Nadia!
Have you talked to your doctor about this? New or worsening depression is not a reported side effect of lithium. The length of time that it takes to completely leave your system varies person to person but generally speaking it takes about three to four days. You shouldn't be having side effects this long after taking the last dose.
Really, if you haven't already, let your doctor know what's going on.
Nadia2000
17 Aug 2024
Hi, Wildcat! Thank you so much for answering. I talked to Dr, she doesn't think think lithium is still a factor. I just can't understand where the nausea, sweating, and delay in urination are coming from. I've never had those symptoms with depression before. They are classic withdrawal symptoms from lithium but it's now been 8 weeks. I have been on prozac and lamictal for 3 months. They were working beautifully before the lithium but Dr thought it would be a good addition. I can't understand prozac and lamictal only working for about 3 weeks then stopping when I started lithium. I di read that lithium withdrawal can sometimes last for 3 months so I'm banking on that.
Thanks for reading the complexities of this traumatic situation.
WildcatVet
17 Aug 2024
Hey, I've been through it too! It just shows how different people respond to medications. I took lithium for several years and it was my golden salvation... until I went toxic twice and with lithium two strikes and you're out.
I hope you can work through this quickly and start feeling better fast!
Related topics
depression, nausea/vomiting, lithium, dosage, symptom
Further information
- Lithium uses and safety info
- Lithium prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Lithium (detailed)
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