The use of lithium for the treatment of mania and depression dates back to the 1870s, although the drug was not introduced into widespread use until nearly a century later. Although doctors are still not certain of exactly how lithium works in the brains of bipolar patients, lithium is one of the most commonly prescribed treatments for patients suffering bipolar symptoms.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Also known as manic depression, bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by alternating states of mania and depression.
Symptoms of mania include delusions of grandeur, pressured speech, flight of ideas,reduced need for sleep, poor judgment, and elated mood. Symptoms of depression include a persistently sad mood, feelings of hopelessness, lack of concentration, insomnia, decreased appetite, and fatigue. Unmanaged bipolar disorder can negatively impact a patient's life, relationships, and well-being. Bipolar disorder can be treated through the use of mood stabilizers, with lithium being one of the most commonly prescribed.
Forms of Lithium Medication
Lithium is taken orally, and is available in tablet, capsule, and liquid form. Dosage varies depending on the individual, but most bipolar patients require 900 - 1200 mg of lithium per day. It is not uncommon for patients taking lithium to require dosage adjustments in order to maintain effective therapy for their bipolar disorder.
Common Side Effects of Lithium
Common side effects of lithium include dry mouth, hand tremor, increased thirst, increased urination, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting and lowered thyroid function.
Side effects of lithium may lessen over time, and may also be relieved by adjusting either the dose, or the time of day when the medication is taken by the patient. However, patients should consult with their doctors before adjusting their dose of any medication.
Blood Tests and Monitoring During Lithium Therapy
Patients taking lithium to treat bipolar disorder will require regular blood tests to monitor their lithium levels.
This is important because the difference between a therapeutic dose and a toxic one is quite small. Many patients will also have their thyroid levels checked regularly, as lithium can lower thyroid function.
Lithium Toxicity
Symptoms of lithium toxicity include diarrhea, vomiting, tremor, changes in coordination, muscle weakness, and drowsiness. Patients taking lithium to treat bipolar disorder should contact their doctor immediately if they experience these side effects, or if they are concerned about any symptoms or side effects they are experiencing.
Regular Follow-up Needed for Bipolar Patients
The full effects of lithium may be seen within a few weeks of beginning treatment, but patients must follow up regularly with their physician to monitor their lithium serum levels, and to report any changes in their symptoms. The doctor may adjust the patient's lithium dosage, or may prescribe other medications, such as anti-depressants or other mood stabilizers to help manage the patient's bipolar symptoms.
Many patients with bipolar disorder also participate in regular individual or group therapy to learn about their illness, and to help cope with life's stresses. Some patients may require more intensive treatment and stabilization in a psychiatric hospital. No matter what treatment is chosen, it is important that patients with manic-depressive illness participate in their therapy, and take their medication regularly.
Reference:
Duckworth, Ken.(2006) "Bipolar Disorder." National Alliance on Mental Illness.<www.nami.org>
Ogbru, Omudhome, PharmD and Marks, J.W., MD. (n.d.) "Lithium." Medicinenet.com <www.medicinenet.com>
