Discharge Instructions: Taking Lithium

Your doctor prescribed lithium for you. Lithium acts as an antidepressant and is often prescribed to patients with bipolar disorder (also called manic depression). This medication has several uses. When taken regularly, lithium helps prevent or reduce the severity of mood swings. Lithium can also be used to boost the effectiveness of another antidepressant.

Guidelines for Use

• Follow the fact sheet that came with your medication. It tells you when and how to take your medication. Ask for a sheet if you didn’t get one.

• Tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter or herbal medications.

• Take your medication exactly as directed. This medication takes several weeks to reach its full effect. Because of this, it is important to take this medication every day, even if you believe that it is not helping your symptoms. You may need to take this medication for a few months, or for life, depending on your symptoms.

• Take your medication with food.

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember—unless it’s almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the dose you missed. Don’t take a double dose.

• Don’t drink alcohol while taking this medication.

• Be sure to drink plenty of water while taking this medication. Sports drinks such as Gatorade may be used to replace salts lost by excessive perspiration.

• Don’t take this drug if you are pregnant.

• Don’t stop taking this drug without first talking to your doctor. Your symptoms may return or get worse.

• Work closely with your doctor. You may need to have your lithium dose adjusted during manic or depressive periods.

• Store this medication in a cool, safe place away from the reach of children.

Possible Side Effects

Tell your doctor if you have any of these side effects. Don’t stop taking the medication until your doctor tells you to. Mild side effects include:

• Nausea

• Mild diarrhea

• Tremor

• Weight gain

• Increased thirst

• Increased urination

• Drowsiness

• Hair loss