Lithium

What is it?

Composition

Lithium-based drugs contain the active ingredient lithium carbonate. This form of lithium is the most common and is used to treat mental disorders. Lithium carbonate is available in various dosages, allowing doctors to select an individual treatment regimen for each patient. In addition to the main active ingredient, the composition of dosage forms includes excipients, which may vary depending on the manufacturer.

Examples of excipients that may be included in lithium tablets or capsules include:

• Microcrystalline cellulose - used as a binder to form a tablet.
• Magnesium stearate - serves as a lubricant to make the tablets easier to swallow.
• Silicon dioxide - used to prevent powder caking.
• Starch - ensures uniform release of the active substance.

How to use?

Proper use of Lithium requires careful adherence to the treatment regimen prescribed by your doctor. Lithium is usually taken orally in tablet or capsule form. The dosage is individualized and may be adjusted based on your bodys response to treatment and the drug level in your blood, which is regularly monitored through tests. It is important to understand that Lithium does not start working immediately; it may take several weeks to achieve a therapeutic effect.

To get the most benefit from treatment, follow these guidelines:

1. Take Lithium at the same time every day to maintain stable drug levels in your blood.
2. Do not skip doses or double the dose if you forget to take the drug. Just take your next dose at the usual time.
3. Drink plenty of water and avoid sudden changes in salt intake, as this can affect the level of Lithium in your body.

How does it work?

Lithium acts on the central nervous system, exerting a stabilizing effect on mood. Although the exact mechanism of its action is not fully understood, lithium is believed to affect the transmission of signals between neurons in the brain. It modifies the activity of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which play a key role in mood regulation.

In addition, lithium reduces the excitability of nerve cells, which helps prevent the sharp mood swings characteristic of bipolar disorder. The drug also has neuroprotective properties that help protect nerve cells from damage, which may be important in the long-term treatment of mental disorders. Overall, lithium helps stabilize mood, reducing the frequency of manic and depressive episodes, and helps improve the quality of life of patients.

Indications

Lithium is used primarily for the treatment and prevention of bipolar disorder. This drug is one of the most effective mood stabilizers, preventing both manic and depressive episodes. Lithium treatment may also be prescribed for other mental disorders where mood stabilization and prevention of suicidal behavior are required.

The main indications for the use of Lithium include:

• Treatment of manic episodes in bipolar disorder.
• Prevention of exacerbations of bipolar disorder.
• Treatment of treatment-resistant depression that does not respond to other methods of therapy.
• Prevention of suicide attempts in patients with affective disorders.

Contraindications

Despite the effectiveness of lithium in the treatment of mental disorders, its use is contraindicated in a number of cases. This is due to the fact that lithium can have a significant impact on various body systems, and in certain conditions its use may be unsafe. Before starting lithium therapy, the doctor carefully evaluates the possible risks and benefits for the patient.

Major contraindications to the use of lithium include:

• Severe renal failure, as lithium is excreted through the kidneys and its accumulation can lead to toxic effects.
• Heart disease, including abnormal heart rhythms, as lithium can affect electrolyte balance and the functioning of the heart muscle.
• Hyponatremia (low sodium levels in the blood), as lithium can aggravate this condition.
• Dehydration and conditions accompanied by significant fluid loss, as this can increase the risk of lithium intoxication.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, if the benefit to the mother does not outweigh the possible risk to the fetus or child.

Side effects

Although lithium is an effective mood stabilizer, it can be associated with a number of side effects. Some may occur early in treatment and subside over time, while others require close monitoring and possibly dosage adjustments. It is important to regularly report any unpleasant symptoms to your doctor to avoid serious complications.

The most common side effects of lithium include:

• Hand tremors, which often improve with lowering the dosage or using special medications.
• Thirst and increased urination, related to lithiums effect on the kidneys.
• Weight gain, which may be related to changes in metabolism.
• Drowsiness or fatigue, especially early in treatment.
• Gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea or diarrhea.