Lithium for the Treatment of Bipolar Disorders
The drug lithium has been around for a long time. In fact, it is often the first choice when a doctor is prescribing medication for manic depression, which is also known as bipolar disorder.
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What is Bi-polar Disorder?
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Your mood can elevate where you are unusually happy, or you can sink into an intense depression that you may find is difficult to deal with. These ups and downs are typical of bipolar disorder, and it affects energy levels, mood, emotions and often makes it difficult for you to function from day-to-day.
What Is Lithium?
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Eskalith, or lithium carbonate, is used for bipolar disorder as it still proves useful for controlling manic symptoms and preventing manic and depressive episodes from reoccurring.
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Side Effects of Lithium
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According to RxList, Lithium can affect your heart, gastrointestinal system, skin, give you blurred vision, dry mouth and can cause impotence. It can also adversely affect certain tests like an electrocardiogram or EKG.
Drug Interactions
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If you are currently taking medication for water retention, take care because lithium can result in sodium loss. Calcium channel blockers can also adversely react with lithium, causing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and tremors. Lithium toxicity has also occurred when taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
Lithium Warning
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The RxList warns you of lithium toxicity which happens when lithium levels are too high. Routine blood tests are essential to maintain a safe, therapeutic level.
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References
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