Lithium Carbonate

Lithium Carbonate is used to treat the manic episodes of manic-depressive illness, a condition in which a person's mood swings from depression to excessive excitement.

Drug Name

Lithium Carbonate

Drug Uses

Lithium Carbonate is used to treat the manic episodes of manic-depressive illness, a condition in which a person's mood swings from depression to excessive excitement. A manic episode may involve some or all of the following symptoms:

Aggressiveness;
Elation;
Fast, urgent talking;
Frenetic physical activity;
Grandiose, unrealistic ideas;
Hostility;
Little need for sleep;
Poor judgment.
Some doctors also prescribe lithium for premenstrual tension, eating disorders such as bulimia, certain movement disorders, and sexual addictions.

How to use

Use Lithium Carbonate as directed by your doctor.
To avoid stomach upset, take Lithium Carbonate immediately after meals or with food or milk.
While taking Lithium Carbonate, you should drink 10 to 12 glasses of water or fluid a day. To minimize the risk of harmful side effects, eat a balanced diet that includes some salt and lots of liquids. If you have been sweating a great deal or have had diarrhea, make sure you get extra liquids and salt. Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Lithium Carbonate. Drug Class and Mechanism

Lithium Carbonate is an antimanic agent. Exactly how Lithium Carbonate works is unknown, but it may work by altering the balance of certain chemicals in the brain.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Lithium Carbonate and are taking it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store Lithium Carbonate at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep in a tight, light-resistant container. Keep Lithium Carbonate out of the reach of children and away from pets.