Warning: following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, expertise & judgment of you're physician. it shouldnot be construed to indicate that use of medication is safe or effective since you. Consult youre healthcare professional before using it medication.

Lithium - oral

(lith-ee-um)

common brand names: Eskalith, Lithobid, Lithonate, Lithotabs

Warning: It's very important to have the right amount of lithium in youre body because too much of it may lead to unwanted effects such as nausea, diarrhea, shaking of the hands, dizziness, twitching, seizures, slurred speech, confusion, or increased urination. Notify your doctor promptly if these effects occur. difference between correct amount of lithium and too much, is small. Therefore, it is important you be monitored closely.

Lithium Carbonate Usage: it medication is used to treat manic-depressive disorder (bipolar disorder). it works to stabilize mood & reduces extremes in behavior.

How to use Lithium Carbonate: Take with food or milk or immediately after meals to prevent stomach upset. this medication works best if amount of drug in your body is kept at constant level. Do it by taking the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day & night. Drink 8-12 glasses of water or other fluid each day and maintain regular diet while taking it medication. do not change amount of salt in you're diet unless your doctor tells you to do so. this pill must be taken as prescribed. do not stop taking it drug suddenly without consulting your pharmacist. some conditions may worsen if the med is suddenly stopped.

Lithium Carbonate side effects: may cause drowsiness, tiredness, increased thirst, increased frequency of urination, weight gain, and trembling of hands. These must subside as some your body adjusts to medication. If these symptoms persist or become bothersome, inform youre doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: diarrhea, vomiting, fever, unsteady walking, fainting, confusion, slurred speech, rapid heart rate, severe trembling of the hands. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact youre pharmacist or physician.

Lithium Carbonate Precautions: Tell your doctor your entire medical history especially if you have: leukemia, heart disease, kidney disease or other urinary problems, epilepsy, parkinsonism, severe dehydration (symptoms include strong and persistent thirst), infections accompanied with high fever, any allergies. this medication may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. this drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy especially during the 1'st three months. Discuss the benefits and risks with your healthcare professional. Lithium is excreted into breast milk. in most cases, breast-feeding isnt recommended while using this medication. Consult your healthcare professional before breast-feeding.

Lithium Carbonate drug interactions: Tell your physician of any over-the-counter or prescription tablet you are taking including: anti- inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, SSRI antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine), other drugs for mental/mood conditions (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine, thiothixene, or butyrophenones such as haloperidol), water pills. Maintain normal diet with an average consumption of sodium. Avoid products that contain sodium (like sodium bicarbonate, an ingredient in certain antacids). do not start or stop any medicine without pharmacist or pharmacist approval.

Lithium Carbonate Overdose: If overdose is suspected, contact youre local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include diarrhea, vomiting, ringing in ears, blurred vision, lack about coordination, unusual drowsiness, seizures, tremor, and loss of consciousness.

Lithium Carbonate special notes: it may take several weeks before full effects of this medication noted. you're doctor may perform lab tests periodically during treatment with this medication to money how it is working. don't change brands about it medication without checking with your healthcare professional or physician. Not every brands are identical.

If you missed Lithium Carbonate dose: If you miss dose, take as soon as remembered unless next scheduled dose is within two hours (or 6 hours for slow-release forms). If so, skip the missed dose & resume you're usual dosing schedule. do not 'double-up' dose to catch up.

Lithium Carbonate Storage: Store at room temperature away from moisture & sunlight. do not store in the bathroom. do not freeze liquid forms.

Active Ingredients : Lithium