HealingWell
Search Close Search
☰

For new member Binxy_Jay

Support Forums
>
Bipolar Disorder
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply
❬ ❬ Previous Thread |Next Thread ❭ ❭
Posted 8/29/2008 3:58 AM (GMT 0)
HI
I have just (really only yesterday) been put on lithium and i was wondering if someone could tell me the possible side effects of the drug and how long i wait before i exepect anything at all.
I've heard that you should take vitamin suppliments while on lithium. if so, which ones?
ALSO
whats a PDOC?

--Binxy_Jay
Posted 8/29/2008 4:01 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Binxy_Jay,

Welcome to the forum, glad to have you here. I've never been on lithium, so I'll have to let others tell you what to expect there. I can tell you that pdoc is psychiatrist. If there's anything else, just jump right in and ask or comment away.

serafena
Posted 8/29/2008 2:21 PM (GMT 0)

Hi and welcome.

My biggest concerns with Lithium are memory loss and hair loss. There are other side effects as with all medications. Not everyone is affected by them. I was told to drink plenty of water as Lithium can cause dehydration, plus limit my caffeine intake. There are also alot of drug interactions with Lithium, so I make sure that any doc I see knows that I am taking Lithium. I'm sure there are links here that you can read more about Lithium and it's interactions and side effects. Lithium has been a god send to me!!

Good luck....

Posted 8/29/2008 2:40 PM (GMT 0)
I forgot to mention that you should get a blood test each month to have your Lithium levels checked because too much Lithium in your body can be toxic, and also, you should have your thyroid checked each month as Lithium can cause hypothyroidism.

Posted 8/30/2008 6:04 AM (GMT 0)
thanks so much thats a big help
Posted 9/3/2008 3:03 AM (GMT 0)
binxy_jay,

First, I would like to welcome you to HealingWell and to the Bipolar Forum.

You only need to get monthly bloodwork for the first few months after starting Lithium. Once you are at a therapudic dose and your levels are good you only need to get bloodwork done every 3-4 months. You would only need to get it done more frequently if your pdoc thinks it is a necessity.

You should also watch how much NSAIDs you take (like Advil, motrin, aleve, etc) for they can elevate the amount of Lithium in your system.


As Lorraine said, it is important to drink a lot of water 8-10 cups daily for Lithium can dehydrate you. Also you should try to watch your caffeine intake as well. If you have any questions or concerns please don't hesitate to ask you pdoc or just post on the board.

✚ New Topic ✚ Reply