Lithium carbonate brand name
Lithium: medicine to control mood disorders such as mania and bipolar disorder
1. About lithium
Lithium is a type of medicine known as a mood stabiliser.
It's used to treat mood disorders such as:
- mania (feeling highly excited, overactive or distracted)
- hypo-mania (similar to mania, but less severe)
- regular periods of depression, where treatment with other medicines has not worked
- bipolar disorder, where your mood changes between feeling very high (mania) and very low (depression)
Lithium can also help reduce aggressive or self-harming behaviour.
It comes as regular tablets or slow-release tablets (lithium carbonate). It also comes as a liquid that you swallow (lithium citrate).
Lithium is available on prescription.
2. Key facts
- The most common side effects of lithium are feeling or being sick, diarrhoea, a dry mouth and a metallic taste in the mouth.
- Your doctor will carry out regular blood tests to check how much lithium is in your blood. The results will be recorded in your lithium record book.
- Lithium carbonate is available as regular tablets and modified release (brand names include Priadel, Camcolit and Liskonium).
- Lithium citrate comes as a liquid and common brands include Priadel and Li-Liquid.
3. Who can and cannot take lithium
Lithium can be taken by adults and children over the age of 12 years.
Lithium may not be suitable for some people. Tell your doctor if:
- you have ever had an allergic reaction to lithium or other medicines in the past
- you have heart disease
- you have severe kidney problems
- have an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) that is not being treated
- you have low levels of sodium in your body – this can happen if you're dehydrated or if you're on a low-sodium (low-salt) diet
- you have Addison's disease, a rare disorder of the adrenal glands
- you have, or someone in your family has, a rare condition called Brugada syndrome – a condition that affects your heart
- you need to have surgery in hospital
- you are trying to get pregnant, are pregnant or breastfeeding
Before prescribing lithium, your doctor will do some blood tests to check your kidney and thyroid are OK.
The doctor will also check your weight (and check this throughout your treatment).
If you have a heart condition, the doctor may also do a test that measures the electrical activity of your heart (electrocardiogram).
4. How and when to take lithium
It's important to take lithium as recommended by your doctor.
There are 2 different types of lithium – lithium carbonate and lithium citrate. It's important not to change to a different type unless your doctor has recommended it. This is because different types are absorbed differently in the body.
Lithium carbonate comes as regular tablets and slow-release tablets – where the medicine is released slowly over time.
Lithium citrate comes as a liquid. This is usually only prescribed for people who have trouble swallowing tablets .
Doses vary from person to person.
Your starting dose will depend on your age, what you're being treated for and the type of lithium your doctor recommends.
If you have kidney problems your doctor will monitor the level of lithium in your blood even more closely and change your dose if necessary.
You will usually take your lithium once a day, at night. This is because when you have your regular blood test, you need to have it 12 hours after taking your medicine. You can choose when you take your lithium – just try to keep to the same time every day.
How to take it
Swallow tablets whole with a drink of water or juice. Do not chew them. You can take lithium with or without food.
If you're taking liquid, use the plastic syringe or spoon that comes with your medicine to measure the correct dose. If you do not have one, ask your pharmacist. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon as you will not get the right amount.
Information about your lithium treatment
When you start taking lithium, you will get a lithium treatment pack (usually a purple folder or book) with a record booklet. You need to show your record booklet every time you see your doctor, go to hospital, or collect your prescription.
When you go to the doctor for blood tests, you or your doctor will write in the record booklet:
- your dose of lithium
- your lithium blood levels
- any other blood test results
- your weight
The treatment pack also has a lithium alert card. You'll need to carry this card with you all the time. It tells healthcare professionals that you're taking lithium. This can be useful for them to know in an emergency.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you've lost your treatment pack or did not get one.
Will my dose go up or down?
When you start your treatment you'll need to have a blood test every week to make sure the level of lithium in your blood is not too high or too low. Your doctor may change your dose depending on the results of your blood test.
Once the doctor is happy you'll have a blood test every 3 to 6 months to check the level remains steady.
Once you find a dose that suits you, it will usually stay the same – unless your condition changes, or your doctor prescribes another medicine that may interfere with lithium.
Important: Important
Do not stop taking lithium suddenly or change your dose without speaking to your doctor first. It's important you keep taking it, even if you feel better. If you stop taking it suddenly you could become unwell again very quickly.
What if I'm ill while taking lithium?
Infections and illnesses like colds and flu can make you dehydrated, this can affect the level of lithium in your blood.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you:
- have an illness that causes severe diarrhoea, vomiting, a high temperature or sweating
- have a urinary tract infection (UTI)
- are not eating and drinking much
What if I forget to take it?
If you usually take:
- tablets or slow-release tablets – if it's less than 6 hours since you were supposed to take your lithium, take it as soon as you remember. If it is more than 6 hours, just skip the missed dose and take your next one at the usual time
- liquid – if you forget to take a dose, just skip the missed dose and take your next one at the usual time
Never take 2 doses at the same time. Never take an extra dose to make up for a forgotten one.
If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you.
You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.
What if I take too much?
Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- you take too much lithium, even if you do not feel any different
This is because very high amounts of lithium can cause problems with your kidneys and other organs. It can cause symptoms such as:
- feeling or being sick
- problems with your eyesight (blurred vision)
- increased need to pee, lack of control over pee or poo
- feeling faint, lightheaded or sleepy
- confusion and blackouts
- shaking or muscle weakness, muscle twitches, jerks or spasms affecting the face, tongue, eyes or neck
If you need to go to A&E, take the lithium packet or the leaflet inside it, plus any remaining medicine, with you.
5. Side effects
If you're on the right dose and the level of lithium in your blood is right, you may not have any problems taking this medicine.
However, some people find lithium slows down their thinking or makes them feel a bit "numb".
Common side effects
These are usually mild and go away by themselves. They are more likely to happen when you start taking lithium.
Keep taking the medicine but talk to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects get worse or do not go away after a few days:
- feeling sick (nausea)
- diarrhoea
- a dry mouth and/or a metallic taste in the mouth
- feeling thirsty and needing to drink more and pee more than usual
- slight shaking of the hands (mild tremor)
- feeling tired or sleepy
- weight gain (this is likely to be very gradual)
Serious side effects:
The level of lithium in your blood is checked regularly.
But rarely, you may get side effects because there's too much lithium in your blood.
Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:
You have 1 or more of these symptoms:
- loss of appetite, feeling or being sick (vomiting)
- problems with your eyesight (blurred vision)
- feeling very thirsty, needing to pee more than normal, and lack of control over pee or poo
- feeling lightheaded or drowsy
- confusion and blackouts
- shaking, muscle weakness, muscle twitches, jerks or spasms affecting the face, tongue, eyes or neck
- difficulty speaking
These are signs of lithium toxicity. Lithium toxicity is an emergency. Stop taking lithium straight away.
How to avoid high lithium levels in your blood
Make sure that you go for the blood tests arranged by your doctor.
It's important not to reduce your salt intake suddenly. Talk to your doctor if you want to reduce the amount of salt in your diet.
Drink plenty of fluids, especially if you are doing intense exercise or in hot weather when you will sweat more.
Drinking alcohol causes your body to lose water. It's best not to drink too much as it's likely to make you dehydrated, especially in hot weather when you will sweat more.
Always tell any doctor or pharmacist that you are taking lithium before you take any new medicines.
Serious allergic reaction:
In rare cases, lithium may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- you get a skin rash that may include itchy, red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin
- you're wheezing
- you get tightness in the chest or throat
- you have trouble breathing or talking
- your mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat start swelling
You could be having a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.
These are not all the side effects of lithium. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine packet.
You can report any suspected side effect to the UK safety scheme.
6. How to cope with side effects
What to do about:
- feeling or being sick – take lithium with or after a meal or snack. It may also help if you do not eat rich or spicy food. If you are being sick, take sips of water to avoid dehydration.
- diarrhoea – drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee. Do not take any other medicines to treat diarrhoea without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.
- a dry mouth and/or a metallic taste in the mouth – try sugar-free gum or sweets, or sipping cold drinks.
If this does not help, talk to your pharmacist or doctor. Try not to have drinks with a lot of calories in as this might also mean you put on weight. - slight shaking of the hands (mild tremor) – talk to your doctor if this is bothering you or does not go away after a few days. These symptoms can be a sign that the dose is too high for you. Your doctor may change your dose or recommend taking your medicine at a different time of day.
- feeling tired or sleepy – as your body gets used to lithium, these side effects should wear off. If these symptoms do not get better within a week or two, your doctor may either reduce your dose or increase it more slowly. If that does not work you may need to switch to a different medicine.
- weight gain – try to eat well without increasing your portion sizes so you do not gain too much weight. Regular exercise will help to keep your weight stable and help you feel better.
7. Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Lithium and pregnancy
Lithium is not usually recommended in pregnancy, especially during the first 12 weeks (first trimester) where the risk of problems to the baby is highest. However, you may need to take lithium during pregnancy to remain well. Your doctor may advise you to take it in pregnancy if the benefits of the medicine outweigh the risks.
If you become pregnant while taking lithium, speak to your doctor. It could be dangerous to you and your unborn baby if you stop taking it suddenly. Do not stop taking it or make any change to your dose unless your doctor tells you to.
Talk to your doctor before taking this medicine if you plan to get pregnant, or think you may be pregnant. Your doctor can explain the risks and the benefits and will help you decide which treatment is best for you and your baby.
Lithium and breastfeeding
If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy, you can take lithium while breastfeeding.
Lithium passes into breast milk in small amounts. However, it has been linked with side effects in very few breastfed babies.
It's important to continue taking lithium to keep you well. Breastfeeding will also benefit both you and your baby.
If you notice that your baby is not feeding as well as usual, or seems unusually sleepy, or if you have any other concerns about your baby, talk to your health visitor or doctor as soon as possible.
Non-urgent advice: Talk to your doctor if you:
- are trying to get pregnant
- are already pregnant
- would like to breastfeed
For more information about how lithium can affect you and your baby during pregnancy, read this leaflet on the Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (BUMPS) website.
8.
Cautions with other medicines This are some medicines that may interfere with how lithium works and this can affect the levels of lithium in your blood.
Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you're taking (or before you start taking):
- tablets that make you pee (diuretics) such as furosemide or bendroflumethiazide
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – used for pain relief and swelling such as aspirin, ibuprofen, celecoxib or diclofenac
- medicines used for heart problems or high blood pressure such as enalapril, lisinopril or ramipril (ACE inhibitors)
- some medicines used for depression such as fluvoxamine, paroxetine or fluoxetine
- antibiotics such as oxytetracycline, metronidazole, co-trimoxazole, trimethoprim
- medicines for epilepsy such as carbamazepine or phenytoin
These are not all the medicines that can affect the way lithium works.
Always check with your doctor before you start or stop taking any medicine.
Mixing lithium with herbal remedies or supplements
It's not possible to say whether complementary medicines and herbal supplements are safe to take with lithium.
They're not tested in the same way as pharmacy and prescription medicines. They're generally not tested for the effect they have on other medicines.
Important: Important
For safety, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you're taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.
9. Common questions
How does lithium work?Lithium is a metal. Tiny amounts of lithium are found naturally in rocks, and in our food and bodies.
We do not really know exactly how lithium works for mental health conditions, though we do know it's very effective.
There are a number theories about how it works. One is that it works by protecting and helping to create neurons (the cells that pass messages in your brain).
How long does it take to work?Lithium may take several weeks or months to work.
How will it make me feel?If the amount of lithium in your blood is right, you probably will not have any problems taking this medicine.
However, some people find it slows down their thinking or makes them feel a bit "numb". Sometimes it's hard to know whether this is because the lithium is doing its work to control your mood (if you have mania).
Talk to your doctor if you're worried that lithium is slowing down your thinking or numbing your emotions. You may need to have your lithium levels checked again.
How long will I take it for?As long as it is working well to control your condition, you will generally take lithium for a long time.
Some people need to take lithium for many years.
What will happen if I stop taking it?If you or your doctor decide to stop lithium, it must be reduced gradually over a number of weeks or months. If you stop taking it suddenly the symptoms of your condition are likely to come back.
Do not stop taking lithium suddenly even if you feel better, or because you think the dose is too little or too much.
Your doctor will help you to reduce your medicine and stop completely, if you need to.
However, if you think you have lithium toxicity, or are having an allergic reaction, it's important to stop taking lithium straight away and get medical help.
Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now (and stop taking lithium) if:
- you’re having an allergic reaction
- you have lithium toxicity
Lithium is generally safe to take for a long time.
Most people take it for years with no problems.
If you've been taking lithium for some time, it can cause weight gain. It can also cause problems with your kidneys or thyroid gland.
Common signs of an underactive thyroid are tiredness, weight gain and feeling depressed. Signs of kidney problems include swollen hands or ankles, feeling tired and short of breath, changes in your pee and feeling sick. Tell your doctor if you get any these symptoms. Your doctor will test your thyroid and kidneys every 6 months to check for any changes.
If you find you're putting on weight after taking lithium for a while, try to have a healthy balanced diet. Regular exercise will also help you keep your weight stable. Your doctor will usually monitor your weight while you're taking this medicine.
Your doctor may discuss topping up levels of the hormone that the thyroid gland normally produces (thyroxine) with a tablet.
Lithium is not an antipsychotic medicine, it's known as a mood stabiliser. However, your doctor might prescribe an antipsychotic medicine with lithium.
How well does lithium treat depression?Usually, if you have depression, you'll be prescribed an antidepressant medicine first as they are considered more effective for depression than lithium.
However, when antidepressants have not worked, your doctor might prescribe lithium as well. This may be more effective and help your symptoms get better.
Can I drink alcohol with it?Lithium can make you drowsy so it's best to stop drinking alcohol during the first few days of taking lithium, or if your dose is increased.
If you feel OK after this, you can drink alcohol but it's best not to drink too much it's likely to make you dehydrated.
This can increase the chance of high levels of lithium in your blood. It's important to remember this, especially in hot weather when you will sweat more and your body loses water.
Lithium does not affect contraception including the combined pill or emergency contraception.
However, if you have severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, your combined pill may not protect you from pregnancy. Look on the pill packet to find out what to do.
Read more about what to do if you're on the pill and you have diarrhoea
Will it affect my fertility?There is no clear evidence that lithium affects female fertility. However, there is small chance that it can reduce sperm count in men.
Speak to your doctor if you're trying for a baby.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?You can eat and drink normally while taking lithium.
However, it's best to avoid a low-sodium (low-salt) diet as this can increase the levels of lithium in your blood and increase the chance of getting side effects.
The amount of fluids you drink is very important as it can affect the levels of lithium in your blood. Getting dehydrated will affect the levels so it's good to drink plenty of fluids.
Some people may put on weight when taking lithium. Try to eat well without increasing your portion sizes. Regular exercise can also help to keep your weight stable.
Can I drive or ride a bike?When you first start taking lithium – or if the dose has recently been changed – it may make you feel tired, dizzy, sleepy and make your hands shake.
This could affect you if you drive a car, ride a bike, or do anything else that needs focus.
You're recommended to stop doing these things for the first few days, until you know how lithium affects you and until you feel more alert.
If you have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder you must tell the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
Can I take lithium with recreational drugs?Using recreational drugs can affect the level of lithium in the body.
Taking ecstasy while you're on lithium can make you dehydrated, which can lead to lithium toxicity.
Tell your doctor if you think you may take recreational drugs while you're on lithium.
Lithium for Bipolar Disorder and Schizoaffective Disorder
What is lithium?
Lithium is a medication known as a mood stabilizer that is used to prevent and treat symptoms of mania or depression in people with bipolar disorder.
When did the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approve the medication?
Lithium was first approved by the FDA to treat mania in 1970.
Is there a generic version of lithium?
Lithium, or lithium carbonate, is the generic name of the drug.
It is also sold by the brand names Lithobid or Eskalith.
Are there any major differences between lithium and other medications used to treat bipolar disorder?
Lithium belongs to the class of medications known as mood stabilizers. It is taken to decrease the intensity of manic and depressive episodes or to prevent manic or depressive episodes among people with bipolar disorder. People who take lithium should check in with their doctor frequently to monitor the lithium levels in their blood. Their doctor may also recommend that they make changes in the level of sodium in their diet and their fluid intake. Talk to your doctor about what might work best for you and the costs and benefits of taking the medication.
Can children take lithium?
The medication has not been approved for use in children under the age of 12. Talk to your child’s doctor about the potential risks and benefits of using the medication.
Are there potential interaction issues for people taking lithium and any other drugs?
There are hundreds of drugs which are known to interact with lithium in major, moderate, or mild ways, so let your doctor know what medications (both prescription and nonprescription) you are taking before you begin taking the medication.
Some of these include acetazolamide, aminophylline, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, antacids, caffeine, calcium channel blockers, carbamazepine, diuretics, medications for mental illness, methyldopa, metronidazole, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), potassium iodide; selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and theophylline.
Are there any other medical conditions that would make someone ineligible for lithium therapy?
Talk to your doctor about other medical conditions before you take lithium, such as kidney disease, heart disease, organic brain syndrome, thyroid disease, and Brugada syndrome. Also, make sure to tell your doctor or dentist that you are on the medication before you receive surgery.
What is the typical dose that would be prescribed to someone taking lithium?
Dosages for the medication typically range between 900 and 1800 mg daily, depending on the severity of symptoms and your lithium blood levels.
What do I do if I miss a dose?
Take the dose of lithium when you remember, but skip the missed dose if it’s almost time for your next dose.
You should never take extra doses of the medication to make up for missed doses.
What side effects can lithium cause?
The side effects of lithium can include:
loss of appetite
restlessness
mild thirst
dry mouth
excessive saliva
swollen lips
difficulty controlling hand movements
weight changes
stomach pain
gas or indigestion
constipation
decrease in food taste
acne
muscle or joint pain
hair loss
depression
itching or rash
paleness
It is recommended that you wait to drive or operate machinery until you know how the medication affects you. Doctors also advise that people avoid alcohol and illegal drugs while on the medication, as they can worsen adverse effects. Report major side effects to your doctor immediately.
Such side effects may include excessive thirst, unusual fatigue, blackouts, seizures, increased urination, uncontrollable or jerky movements, shortness of breath, fainting, changes in heartbeat, dizziness, tightness of chest, hallucinations, crossed eyes, confusion, headaches, discoloration or pain in fingers or toes, pounding of head, swelling of feet or legs, drowsiness, loss of coordination, diarrhea, vomiting, giddiness, slurred speech, blurred vision, or ringing in ears. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or online.
What are the potential long-term effects of taking Lithium?
Your doctor should monitor for progression of potential long-term side effects, which can include renal impairment.
Is it safe for a woman who is pregnant, about to become pregnant, or nursing to take lithium?
There have been no controlled human pregnancy studies on the effects of lithium, but animal studies have demonstrated some risk. The drug can be transferred via breast milk and harm a baby, so nursing while taking the medication is typically not advised.
Therefore, talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are nursing before you take lithium.
Can symptoms occur if lithium is discontinued?
It’s important not to discontinue use of the drug if you feel better. Maintain contact with your doctor and seek medical attention if necessary when discontinuing the drug. There are no specific withdrawal symptoms associated with lithium discontinuation, but symptoms of bipolar disorder can reemerge.
What should I do if I overdose on lithium?
An overdose of lithium could be fatal, so seek immediate help or call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 if you overdose. Overdose symptoms can include blurred vision, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of coordination, weak muscles, drowsiness, ringing in bears, giddiness, and increased urination.
Is lithium habit-forming?
Lithium has no habit-forming potential, but it is not recommended that you discontinue use of the drug before talking with your doctor, as withdrawal symptoms can occur.
How much does lithium cost?
According to goodrx.com, ninety 300mg capsules of generic lithium cost approximately $25.
Are there any disadvantages to Lithium?
The biggest disadvantages of lithium are potential side effects and the need for more frequent monitoring of lithium levels in the blood. Talk to your doctor about whether the medication is right for you.
DISCLAIMER: The information contained herein should NOT be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified and licensed physician or other health care providers. This article mentions drugs that were FDA-approved and available at the time of publication and may not include all possible drug interactions or all FDA warnings or alerts. The author of this page explicitly does not endorse this drug or any specific treatment method. If you have health questions or concerns about interactions, please check with your physician or go to the FDA site for a comprehensive list of warnings.
- Lithobid- FDA
- Lithium - NIH
Notes: This article was originally published January 4, 2017 and most recently updated September 12, 2022.
Lithium carbonate - description of the substance, pharmacology, use, contraindications, formula
Contents
- Structural formula
- Russian name
- English name
- Latin name of the substance Lithium carbonate
- Chemical name
- Gross formula
- Pharmacological group of the substance Lithium carbonate
- Nosological classification
- CAS Code
- Pharmacological action
- Characteristic
- Pharmacology
- Substance use Lithium carbonate
- Contraindications
- Use in pregnancy and lactation
- Side effects of the substance Lithium carbonate
- Interaction
- Overdose
- Dosage and administration
- Precautions
- Trade names with active substance Lithium carbonate
Structural formula
Russian name
Lithium carbonate
English name
Lithium carbonate
Latin name of the substance Lithium carbonateLithium carbonate Normotimics
Nosological classification
ICD-10 code list
- H81.
0 Meniere's disease - F31 Bipolar affective disorder
- F30.0 Hypomania
- G43 Migraine
- Y57.9 Medicines and medicaments, unspecified
- F10.2 Alcohol dependence syndrome
- F30 Manic episode
- F65 Disorders of sexual preference
- F25 Schizoaffective disorders
CAS code
554-13-2
Pharmacological action
Pharmacological action - antipsychotic , normothymic , sedative .
Characteristics
White granular powder, odorless.
Slightly soluble in water, practically insoluble in alcohol.
Pharmacology
Blocks sodium channels in neurons and muscle cells, causes a shift in the intraneuronal metabolism of catecholamines.
Sufficiently absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, T max is 6-12 hours. T 1/2 increases from 1.3 days after the first dose to 2.4 days after 1 year of regular intake. Passes through the BBB, the placental barrier, penetrates into breast milk.
Use of the substance Lithium carbonate
Manic phase and prevention of exacerbations of bipolar affective disorder, schizoaffective disorders, manic and hypomanic states of various origins, affective disorders in chronic alcoholism, drug dependence (some forms), sexual deviations, Meniere's syndrome, migraine.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity, major surgery, severe cardiovascular disease (may worsen, lithium excretion may be impaired), epilepsy and parkinsonism (may worsen, neurotoxic effects of lithium may be masked), history of leukemia (lithium may exacerbate leukemia) , kidney failure, severe dehydration (increased risk of lithium toxicity), pregnancy, breast-feeding.
Use in pregnancy and lactation
Contraindicated in pregnancy.
FDA fetal category D.
Stop breastfeeding during treatment.
Side effects of the substance Lithium carbonate
From the side of the nervous system and sensory organs: hand tremor, drowsiness, weakness.
From the side of the cardiovascular system and blood (hematopoiesis, hemostasis): cardiac arrhythmia, leukocytosis, inhibition of hematopoiesis.
From the digestive tract: diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth.
From the genitourinary system: polyuria, kidney dysfunction.
Other: myasthenia gravis, increased thirst, weight gain, hypothyroidism, allergic reactions, alopecia, acne.
Interactions
The combination of carbamazepine with lithium increases the risk of neurotoxic effects. Metronidazole, fluoxetine, diuretics, NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors slow down the excretion of Li 9 by the kidneys0180 + and increase its toxic effects (careful monitoring of the concentration of lithium in the blood serum is recommended).
The combined use of lithium with ampicillin and tetracycline can lead to an increase in the concentration of lithium in plasma. CCBs increase the incidence of neurotoxic complications (caution should be exercised). With simultaneous use with methyldopa, the risk of lithium toxicity may increase, even when its serum concentrations remain within the recommended therapeutic limits. Urea, aminophylline, caffeine, theophylline increase the excretion of Li + by the kidneys and reduce its pharmacological action.
Lithium preparations reduce the pressor effect of norepinephrine (an increase in the dose of norepinephrine may be required), increase or prolong the blockade of neuromuscular transmission when used together with atracurium besylate, pancuronium bromide, suxamethonium; enhance the neurotoxic effects of haloperidol, reduce the absorption of chlorpromazine (and possibly other phenothiazines) from the gastrointestinal tract, which leads to a decrease in its concentration in the blood serum by 40%.
Sodium-containing drugs or foods reduce the effectiveness of lithium preparations (high sodium intake increases the excretion of lithium).
When administered concomitantly with antipsychotics and antidepressants, an increase in body weight is possible. Incompatible with ethanol-containing drinks.
Overdose
Symptoms: speech disorder, hyperreflexia, tonic and epileptic convulsions, oliguria, loss of consciousness, collapse, coma.
Treatment: symptomatic.
Dosage and administration
Inside . Adults are prescribed in a dose, the regular intake of which provides an equilibrium concentration in the blood in the range of 0.6–1.2 mmol / l for more than 6 months to manifest a preventive effect; at a dose of 1 g / day, the concentration stabilizes after 10-14 days. Even with a marked improvement, treatment should not be interrupted in order to avoid relapse. In children, the concentration of lithium in the blood should be in the range of 0.
5–1.0 mmol / l.
Precautions
Missed doses will not be reimbursed. It is recommended to gradually cancel treatment by increasing the intervals between doses and gradually reducing the dose.
Do not use in violation of the water-salt balance (salt-free diet, sodium deficiency, diarrhea, vomiting). Use with caution in diabetes mellitus (the concentration of insulin in the blood serum may increase), hypothyroidism.
Before treatment, it is necessary to determine Cl creatinine (should be no more than 0.17 ml / s) and the amount of residual nitrogen, conduct an ECG analysis and a complete blood count with the determination of ESR, and then regularly at least 1 time per month, control the level of lithium in the blood 12 hours after the last dose.
Trade names with active substance Lithium carbonate
Reset filters
Lek. the form All lek. forms substance substance-powder tablets, film-coated
Dosage All dosages 300 mg No dosage
Manufacturer All manufacturers Altaipharm Pharmstandard-Leksredstva Hemetal Changzhou Yabang Pharmaceutical Co.
Normotim - to increase stress resistance, reduce anxiety and improve mood
- Reduce smoking cravings
- Mood improvement
- Increasing stress tolerance
Action
- Improved emotional state with diet
- Improving the effectiveness of weight loss programs
- Anxiety reduction
- Correction of mild depression
- Reduced emotional instability
- Sleep stabilization
- Normalization of the nervous system
- Improvement of psycho-emotional state in old age
- Improving memory and thinking abilities
Differences from competitors
Lithium preparations have been used in medicine for more than half a century, but most of them are based on lithium carbonate, a salt that is toxic and effective only in high doses, which creates a risk of side effects. Therefore, world science does not stop searching for more effective and safe lithium salts.
In Russia, the development and study of new non-toxic and broad-spectrum lithium salts began in the 2000s at the Department of Psychiatry, Narcology and Psychotherapy of the Siberian State Medical University. Lithium ascorbate, an innovative organic salt of lithium, was synthesized there, where one molecule contains two active active substances - ascorbic acid and lithium - which have a synergistic (that is, mutually reinforcing and complementary) effect, expanding the scope of the new compound.
Further studies have shown that lithium ascorbate is safe, effective at low doses and has a wide spectrum of activity not found in other lithium salts.
This is how the Normoteam project started in 2011. The scientific group of the project was headed by Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor Gromova Olga Alekseevna. A number of clinical studies have been conducted. Their results showed that Normotim reduces the level of anxiety and depression, increases the body's resistance to stress, increases emotional stability, and has a positive effect on cognitive functions.
Based on the results of the research, more than 15 articles were published in scientific medical journals and 4 patents of the Russian Federation were received:
- RU 2617512 "An agent with anti-stress, anxiolytic and antidepressant activity and a composition based on it."
- EN 2614737 "Method of improving memory".
- EN 2614697 "Neuroprotective agent".
- EN 2639496 "The use of lithium ascorbate for the prevention and treatment of chronic alcohol intoxication."
The absence of toxicity and a minimum of contraindications made it possible to register Normotim as a vitamin-mineral complex (biologically active supplement). Currently, Normotim* is the only over-the-counter complex with lithium in Russia and the EAEU countries.
* All rights to the Normoteam trademark belong to Normofarm, a resident of the Skolkovo Innovation Center.
Normotim is produced by the Artlife Pharmaceutical Company by order of Normofarm LLC.
Advantages
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Contains unique lithium salt for maximum efficacy and safety
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The only vitamin and mineral complex on the Russian market
with lithium ascorbate -
Clinically proven
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Unique
proprietary compound -
Easy to use -
absorbable tablets
pleasant tasting no drinking required -
Passed
voluntary certification based on the results of
clinical trials
Application
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Increasing stress tolerance
It is effective in case of an unstable state of the emotional background, a decrease in adaptive properties, irritability and other types of active apathy.
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Anxiety reduction
Stable action in anxiety-depressive conditions: the severity of not only situationally provoked anxious fears and doubts decreases, but also generalized anxiety.
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Mood stabilization
Effective with severe mental lability.
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Correction of mild depression
It has a mild antidepressant effect in anxiety-depressive conditions, mild depressive episodes.
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Improvement
moodFor the normal functioning of the nervous system in general and good mood in particular, the body must receive a sufficient amount of the trace element lithium daily.
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Performance enhancement
Stress, mood swings and depressive states negatively affect performance. Normotim contributes to the stabilization of the emotional status, preventing a decrease in personal effectiveness.
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IMPROVEMENT OF EMOTIONAL STATE WITH DIET
Normotim contains vitamins and a special dosage of lithium to improve mood and emotional stability during diets and other stressful situations.
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INCREASING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMS
The use of Normotim increases the effectiveness of weight loss programs by 38%.
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Healthy Longevity
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PROTECTION AGAINST PREMATURE AGING
Lithium has been proven to:
- protects brain cells from aging;
- promotes the regeneration of brain and heart vessels;
- improves memory and other cognitive functions;
- increases bone density, reducing the risk of fractures.
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IMPROVEMENT OF PSYCHO-EMOTIONAL STATE IN OLDER AGE
Reduces the risk of developing dementia (senile dementia). Normalizes the work of the nervous system.
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COGNITIVE IMPROVEMENT
Lithium increases the level of N-acetyl aspartate, which can be considered as an indicator of creativity and which correlates with IQ values.
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SLEEP STABILIZATION
Lithium is involved in the regulation of circadian rhythms that ensure the processes of sleep and wakefulness. A sufficient level of lithium in the body ensures productive sleep with a pronounced feeling of relaxation.
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COMPOSITION OF 1 TABLET:
- lithium ascorbate 6.36 mg
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamin mononitrate) 1.2 mg
- Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) 1.8 mg
HOW TO USE:
For adults and children over 12 years old, 2 tablets in the morning and 1 tablet in the afternoon.
In stressful situations - 2 tablets in the morning, 2 tablets in the afternoon.
Tablets preferably suckable
CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Individual intolerance to the components, pregnancy, breastfeeding.
Action of components
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Lithium ascorbate:
The lithium ascorbate molecule consists of two active active substances - lithium and ascorbic acid, which have a synergistic effect - that is, they reinforce each other
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Vitamin B1:
Optimizes cognitive activity and cognitive functions of the brain
Demand rises sharply in stressful situations
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Vitamin B6:
Participates in the synthesis of neurotransmitters (including serotonin)
LITHIUM and HEALTH
Lithium is an indispensable trace element for the human body, necessary for the correct flow of many physiological processes, but primarily for the normal functioning of the nervous system.
Lithium has a beneficial effect on the nervous system and emotional background, increases stress resistance, mood, and makes the emotional state stable.
In particular, one of the mineral springs in Tuscany, whose water contains an unusually high concentration of lithium, is very popular among tourists for its amazing effect: after bathing, it improves mood.
And Canadian scientists have found that lithium can increase life expectancy!
Read more
Lithium ascorbate
Lithium ascorbate, which is part of Normotim, has the highest efficiency and safety indicators among all lithium salts known to science and is the only lithium salt approved for over-the-counter sale in Russia and the EAEU countries.
Efficiency compared to existing lithium salts
Lithium ascorbate is active
Psychiatric block
Bipolar affective disorders
Depression
Stress
Emotional instability
Neuroprotection
Stroke (post-stroke conditions)
Protection of brain neurons
Toxicology
Refers to the V class of toxicity (non-toxic substance), approved for use in over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements
The safest lithium salt (lithium carbonate toxicity* is 12 times higher)
Therapeutic dosage
Effective at low doses, therapeutic dosage is 10 times lower than lithium carbonate*
* Lithium carbonate used as a drug
TV stories about the benefits of lithium
lithium helps from seasonal depression
lithium helps to reduce weight
lithiums in the elderly
lithium strengthens the immunity of
lithium contributes to the normalization of sleep.
Lithium reduces sugar cravings
Pass test
BEC DEPRESSION SCALE
Anxiety Test
(by Taylor) Determination of the level of depression
on the Montgomery-Asberg scale
Research
INCREASING THE EFFICIENCY OF THE WEIGHT REDUCTION PROGRAM OF THE DOCTOR BORMENTAL CENTER
WITH THE APPLICATION OF THE DRUG NORMOTIM®
The study was conducted for 7 months. The study involved 132 people, of which 92 people (69.7%) had signs of depression.
As a result of the study:
- It was possible to increase the rate of weight loss.
- The effectiveness of the Weight Loss Program for participants with emotional instability (signs of depression) increased by 38%.
- The responses of the participants showed that the drug Normotim® has the necessary normothymic effect - stabilization of the emotional background. As established during the study, the normothymic (mood stabilization) effect of Normotim® appears starting from 2-3 weeks from the start of administration and is observed throughout the entire period of administration.
- No side effects or complaints were found.
In the control group, 46 people completed the Program, in the Normotim® group, 46 people completed the Program.
Program members
without Normatim®
Average age 41
Starting weight 92.7
Program members
using Normotim®
Average age 38
Starting weight 89.3
Clinical study "The use of dietary supplement NORMOTIM® in
mood disorder, adaptation, depressive episodes"
Features of well-being, activity, mood according to the SAN method at the first stage.
Features of well-being, activity, mood according to the SAN method at the third stage.
Dynamics of the level of anxiety on the Taylor scale during the study.
Dynamics of the level of depression on the MARDS scale during the study.
