What is Lithium Carbonate (Lithium Carbonate) used for?

Lithium Carbonate (Lithium Carbonate) is an oral medication prescribed to manage manic episodes in patients suffering from bipolar disorder. The medication balances levels of neurotransmitters in the brain to reduce symptoms associated with this condition such as hyperactivity, rushed speech, irritability, or delusions. This action also makes it useful for treating depression or reducing self-harming behavior. Your physician may prescribe it to treat other unlisted conditions, as well.

How should I use Lithium Carbonate (Lithium Carbonate)?

Lithium Carbonate (Lithium Carbonate) is normally administered once daily at a dosage of one tablet, but your particular instructions will depend on the severity of your symptoms. These doses should be swallowed whole with a large glass of water and can be taken with or without food. Never split, crush, or chew the tablets prior to use as this may destroy or alter the effects of their contents. It is also recommended to not suddenly halt administration as this may cause unexpected complications. You will typically be instructed to gradually reduce your dosage to prevent any health problems from occurring. Ask your physician or pharmacist any questions you have about the medicine to ensure the correct usage.

What are the side effects of Lithium Carbonate (Lithium Carbonate)?

The use of Lithium Carbonate (Lithium Carbonate) may cause side effects in some patients including:

• Mild nausea, vomiting, or an upset stomach
• Mild hand tremors
• Fatigue
• Mild hair loss
• Mild skin irritation

Immediately inform your physician if any symptoms become intense or if more serious side effects appear such as severe thirst, joint stiffness, severe tremors, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, vision problems, faintness, seizures, or signs of lithium toxicity including diarrhea, loss of coordination, or tinnitus. These conditions may require emergency medical assistance or alterations to your regimen to prevent more problems from occurring.

Please Note

Lithium Carbonate (Lithium Carbonate) should not be used to treat patients with hypothyroidism, Addison's disease, or heart disease. It is also important to inform your physician if you have psoriasis or myasthenia gravis as these conditions may cause unexpected health complications during treatment requiring adjustments to your regimen.

Strictly follow all instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist while using Lithium Carbonate (Lithium Carbonate). Optimum and safe dosage can differ based on the patient and the condition being treated.

As this medication may be unsafe for certain patients, it is essential you always inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or ongoing health conditions, and if you are taking any other form of medication, supplements, or herbal products.

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you have an allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Common signs of a reaction include hives, swelling, skin rashes, chest pains, as well as trouble breathing or swallowing.