Lithium for Bipolar (Brand names include Eskalith, Lithobid)

by Sarah from Bipolar-Lives
(FL, US)

US BRAND NAME: Eskalith, Lithobid

GENERIC NAME: Lithium

TYPE: Mood Stabilizer

USE: Lithium is used to treat mania that is part of bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness). It is also used on a daily basis to reduce the frequency and severity of manic episodes. Lithium can help reduce symptoms of mania, such as feeling upset, having racing thoughts, and not being able to sleep. It can also help depression in bipolar disorder, although it is more effective as an anti-manic than as an antidepressant.

COMMENTS: Lithium can help reduce symptoms of mania, such as feeling upset, having racing thoughts, and not being able to sleep. It is the most effective protective med against bipolar suicides. Dr Jim Phelps summarizes the benefits of lithium as the frontline treatment for the classic bipolar I symptom pattern of euphoric mania and severe depressions. It is used in situations of significant manic symptoms where you need all the antidepressant you can get and/or suicide risk is a concern. Another advantage is that lithium is very inexpensive.

EVIDENCE: According to Consumer Reports and the British Medical Journal, about half of people with mania get improved symptoms with lithium, compared with one quarter of people who take a pretend treatment (a placebo). Lithium has the longest history of any mental health medication and is well established as the frontline treatment in manic-depressive illness.

SIDE EFFECTS: Include but not limited to: Tremor, Weight Gain, Confusion, poor memory, or lack of awareness, Trouble concentrating, Frequent urination, Thirst, Tiredness

CAUTIONS: Regular blood work must be taken as a safeguard against lithium toxicity which can be fatal. Patients should monitor thyroid and kidney function for abnormalities. Lithium interferes with the regulation of sodium and water levels in the body and can cause dehydration.