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Lithium: 7 things you should know

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on July 4, 2023.

1. How it works

2. Upsides

3. Downsides

If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include:

Note: In general, seniors or children, people with certain medical conditions (such as liver or kidney problems, heart disease, diabetes, seizures) or people who take other medications are more at risk of developing a wider range of side effects. View complete list of side effects

4. Bottom Line

Lithium may be used to treat manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder; however, there is a fine line between too much and too little, and ongoing monitoring is needed to prevent lithium toxicity.

5. Tips

6. Response and effectiveness

7. Interactions

Medicines that interact with lithium may either decrease its effect, affect how long it works, increase side effects, or have less of an effect when taken with lithium. An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of the medications; however, sometimes it does. Speak to your doctor about how drug interactions should be managed.

Common medications that may interact with lithium include:

May prolong the effects of neuromuscular blocking agents (such as pancuronium or succinylcholine).

Avoid drinking alcohol or taking illegal or recreational drugs while taking lithium.

Note that this list is not all-inclusive and includes only common medications that may interact with lithium. You should refer to the prescribing information for lithium for a complete list of interactions.

References

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use lithium only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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