What is lithium?

Lithium salts act on the nervous system and are mainly used to prevent and treat bipolar disorder.

What is the effect of lithium?

Lithium salt has the effect of stabilizing mood, Lithium can prevent and reduce relapse in about 80% of patients with bipolar disorder. Most patients can continue to work or go to school if they continue to take it for a long period.

Side effects of lithium

Hands trembling slightly, thirst, nausea, increased urine volume, abdominal discomfort, loose stool, fatigue, heavy hands and feet, muscle twitching.

Treatment of lithium side effects

• The side effects of taking lithium are temporary, and usually disappear when resuming taking it.
• Thirst can be quenched by drinking more boiled water or sucking on ice cubes in your mouth.
• If trembling hands cause inconvenience, consider discussing treatment with your doctor.

Reaction to lithium poisoning

Lithium salt poisoning may cause a range of adverse reactions, the symptoms of which depend on the degree of poisoning. Here are some possible reactions:

1. Nervous system symptoms: headache, tremor, unsteady gait, convulsions and coma, etc.
2. Impaired kidney function: An overdose of lithium salts may have adverse effects on the kidneys, manifested as polyuria, dehydration and weakened kidney function.
3. Heart symptoms: arrhythmia and heart failure, etc.
4. Digestive system: vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea.
5. Neurological symptoms: confusion, drowsiness, lethargy and confusion.

Treatment of lithium poisoning

In the event of any symptoms or signs similar to poisoning, patients or family members should contact psychiatrists and nurses immediately. Doctors should examine the patient and take a blood sample to test the concentration of lithium in blood and adjust the dosage according to the situation.

Factors contributing to lithium poisoning

• Overdose as a result of not following the doctor's instructions.
• Improper intake of diet and water.
• Special constitution and physical dysfunction.
• Interaction with other drugs.

Cautions for taking lithium

• Lithium is usually administered for 7 to 10 days to see the effect.
• Regular and continuous use is required to be effective.
• The dosage should be determined by the physician. If it is insufficient, it will not be effective, whereas if it is excessive, it will cause some serious side effects.
• Pay attention to adequate intake of water and diet.
• In case of severe diarrhea, high fever or physical illness, contact your doctor for medication. If your doctor cannot be reached, stop medication temporarily and discuss it with your doctor later.
• Discuss with your physician what you need to know if you are taking any other medications.
• To determine whether the dose is appropriate, please come to the hospital for regular blood drawing according to the schedule arranged by your physician.
• Blood sampling is conducted within 10 to 12 hours after the previous medication, with an empty stomach required.
• Discuss medication with your doctor if you are preparing for pregnancy or already pregnant.