Lithium is a prescription-only anti-manic agent used in the treatment of bipolar disorder. It works as a mood stabilizer, preventing extreme mood swings and reducing the frequency and severity of mania. It may also improve depression in bipolar patients. Several forms of lithium are available, including regular capsules, tablets and syrups and sustained-release capsules and tablets.
Function
Lithium works directly in the brain by stabilizing the levels of a neurotransmitter called glutamate. Although it is uncertain how glutamate levels affect mood and bipolar disorder, lithium remains the most effective treatment for the manic phase of the condition. Because lithium works directly on the brain, some side effects associated with the drug are related to brain function; others are a result of toxicity caused by the drug's impact on other parts of the body.
Effects
Lithium can cause a host of side effects, although most people find benefit of the drug outweighs the side effects it causes. Gastrointestinal side effects are common and include indigestion, nausea, diarrhea and flatulence. Reduced thyroid function can occur while taking lithium. This can cause weight gain, hair loss, depression, and weakening of the hair and nails. Most side effects can be minimized by dosage adjustments and dietary changes.
Significance
Regular blood tests must be performed while taking lithium, because of the risk of lithium toxicity. Symptoms of lithium toxicity include seizures, exhaustion, blackouts, hallucinations, vision changes, itching and loss of coordination. Some serious side effects can occur even if the level of lithium in the blood is not excessive. Any disturbing or particularly bothersome side effect should be promptly reported to your doctor.
Considerations
Lithium should not be taken by people who have impaired kidney function, heart disease or who must be on a low-sodium diet. Children and pregnant women are at particular risk of experiencing severe side effects while taking this medication. Lithium passes into breast milk and may cause harm to a baby, so it should not be taken by nursing women. Lithium may cause different side effects in the elderly than in other groups, so it must be used with caution in people over 65 years old. Certain drugs, including diuretics, anti-psychotics and asthma medications can cause serious interactions if taken with lithium.
Warning
Lithium overdose is serious and can rapidly cause multi-organ failure and death. Symptoms of overdose include severe diarrhea, seizures, loss of coordination, weakness, vomiting, drowsiness and difficulty breathing. Vomiting and diarrhea decrease the amount of water in the body, further increasing lithium levels and exacerbating the initial overdose. Seek emergency medical attention if you, or someone you know, has taken too much lithium.
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