Prescription Treatments for Bipolar Disorder: Lithium

Lithium is the most commonly administered prescription drug used to treat bipolar disorder. The drug has numerous benefits in treating the condition, but it should also be taken with care. Patients who are on lithium therapy should be closely monitored by their doctors to ensure levels of lithium in the blood remain at a safe level.

Benefits of Lithium

The common brand names of lithium include Eskaltin, Lithobid, and Lithonate. Lithium works as a mood stabilizing drug in patients with bipolar disorder. The drug works primarily in controlling the extreme mood swings people with bipolar disorder may experience. The drug works particularly well in alleviating and controlling symptoms of mania that a patient may experience. In fact, lithium works to relieve symptoms of mania within two weeks of the first dosage. Because the disorder as a whole may take weeks to months to control, though, other drugs like antidepressants and antipsychotics are often prescribed in conjunction with lithium. The drug’s ability to alleviate symptoms within a few weeks is a key benefit to patients with the condition.

Side Effects of Lithium

Like any other prescription drug, lithium comes complete with a set of potential side effects. While the benefit to bipolar patients may outweigh the risk of side effects, it is still important to follow the doctor’s orders carefully when taking this drug. Common side effects include the urge to urinate frequently as well as weight gain. Patients may also experience an increase in thirst, trembling of the hands, and nausea. Lithium also has the potential to contribute to the development of thyroid and kidney problems, so patients taking the drug are monitored closely. A diet too low in sodium, heavy sweating, vomiting, and fever can all increase levels of lithium in the blood. Increased levels of lithium in the blood can be toxic.

If you are taking a course of lithium and experience symptoms such as blurred vision, irregular heart beat, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and confusion, you should report to the nearest medical center immediately. These symptoms are signs of a potential overdose and should be treated as soon as possible.