LITHIUM

Brand names: Camcolit, Liskonum, Lithicarb, Priadel

Use: Mania, bipolar disorder (manic depression), recurrent depression, aggresive or self-harm behaviour.

Lithium is used as a mood stabiliser in the treatment of patients with manic depression.

Cautions:

- heart disease
- thyroid disease
- kidney impairment
- pregnancy
- breast-feeding
- diuretics (especially thiazides)

Side effects:

Occasional:

- nausea
- diarrhoea
- hand tremor
- metallic taste in the mouth
- thirst
- increase in urine frequency
- weight gain
- bloated feeling

Toxicity/overdose:

- seizures
- ringing in the ears
- loss of consciousness (fainting, coma)

Interactions:

Many medicines can interact with lithium to cause toxicity. It is important to consult your doctor/pharmacist before starting any new medicine.