Definition:
Lithium is a naturally occurring metallic salt, atomic number 3 on the periodic table of chemical elements. The substance most commonly used as a mood stabilizer in bipolar disorder is lithium carbonate. Brand names include Lithobid, Eskalith, Lithane, Lithonate and Carbolith. Generic versions are also available.
Regular tests are necessary to insure that blood levels of Lithium remain in the safe range. It is important that patients have normal kidneys and thyroid if they are to take Lithium.
It is important to drink plenty of water when taking lithium and follow a diet with sufficient but not excessive salt intake. One of the most common side effects of Lithium is weight gain.
For much more on Lithium, see our Lithium Library and Lithium Side Effects.
Lithium is a naturally occurring metallic salt, atomic number 3 on the periodic table of chemical elements. The substance most commonly used as a mood stabilizer in bipolar disorder is lithium carbonate. Brand names include Lithobid, Eskalith, Lithane, Lithonate and Carbolith. Generic versions are also available.
Regular tests are necessary to insure that blood levels of Lithium remain in the safe range. It is important that patients have normal kidneys and thyroid if they are to take Lithium.
It is important to drink plenty of water when taking lithium and follow a diet with sufficient but not excessive salt intake. One of the most common side effects of Lithium is weight gain.
For much more on Lithium, see our Lithium Library and Lithium Side Effects.
Pronunciation: LITH-ee-um
