Lithium Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

Lithium is primarily used to treat bipolar disorder (manic depression). It helps to prevent or control manic episodes (excited, agitated, energetic behavior) and depression. Lithium is sometimes used for other psychiatric disorders, such as depression that doesn't respond to antidepressants.

Lithium works by affecting the way certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) pass messages between nerve cells in the brain. While the exact mechanism isn't fully understood, it helps stabilize mood swings and reduce extremes in behavior by restoring the balance of these brain chemicals.

Common side effects may include increased thirst, frequent urination, mild tremor, mild nausea, and diarrhea. These often improve as your body adjusts to the medication. More serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include severe tremor, confusion, seizures, and signs of lithium toxicity.

Lithium dosage is highly individualized and determined by regular blood tests that measure the level of lithium in your blood. Your doctor will start with a low dose and gradually increase it until the optimal therapeutic level is reached, while monitoring for side effects.

Yes, it's important to maintain consistent salt and fluid intake while taking lithium. Sudden changes in salt or water consumption can affect lithium levels in your blood. Avoid low-sodium diets, excessive sweating without replacing salt and water, and dehydration, as these can increase the risk of lithium toxicity.