lithium
Brand names: Lithium Sulphuratum
# Lithium Overview Lithium is a medication that doctors prescribe to help treat bipolar disorder, a mental health condition where people experience extreme mood swings between very high and very low moods. When taken as directed, lithium helps balance chemicals in the brain and can reduce the severity and frequency of these mood episodes. It can also help prevent suicide in people with bipolar disorder. Lithium comes in tablet and capsule forms that you take by mouth, usually several times a day. Your doctor will determine the right dose for you based on your individual needs. It's very important to use lithium safely because it can cause serious side effects if something goes wrong. You should never suddenly stop taking lithium without talking to your doctor first. Keep lithium away from children since it can be dangerous if they take it by accident. Tell your doctor right away if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant, since lithium might affect a developing baby. You'll also need regular blood tests to make sure the amount of lithium in your body is at a safe level. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist questions if you're unsure about anything, and keep all your doctor's appointments so they can monitor how well the medicine is working.
Most Reported Side Effects (FAERS)
- DRUG INEFFECTIVE3,305 reports
- TOXICITY TO VARIOUS AGENTS3,280 reports
- TREMOR2,538 reports
- DRUG INTERACTION2,490 reports
- NAUSEA2,170 reports
- OFF LABEL USE2,085 reports
- WEIGHT INCREASED1,911 reports
- FATIGUE1,770 reports
- DEPRESSION1,696 reports
- VOMITING1,668 reports
Source: FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Voluntary reports do not establish causation.
Check interactions with lithium:
SafeCheck provides drug interaction information from FDA-approved product labeling (openFDA). This is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.