Lithium is an oral medication used to stabilize mood in patients with bipolar disorder and is also used as an antidepressant.
Lithium can be sold under the trade name Carbolitium, Carbolitium CR or Carbolim and can be purchased as 300 mg tablets or 450 mg prolonged-release tablets in pharmacies.
Lithium Price
The price of Lithium varies between 10 and 40 reais.
Lithium Indications
Lithium is indicated for the treatment of mania in patients with bipolar disorder, maintenance of treatment of patients with bipolar disorder, prevention of mania or depressive phase and treatment of psychomotor hyperactivity.
In addition, Carbolitium can also be used, along with other antidepressant medications, to help treat depression.
How to use Lithium
The mode of use of Lithium should be indicated by the physician according to the purpose of the treatment.
However, it is recommended that the patient drink at least 1 liter at 1.5 liters of liquid per day and eat a normal diet of salt.
Side Effects of Lithium
The major side effects of lithium include tremor, excessive thirst, increased thyroid size, excessive urination, involuntary loss of urine, diarrhea, nausea, palpitations, weight gain, acne, hives and shortness of breath.
Contraindications of Lithium
Lithium is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to the components of the formula, in patients with renal and cardiovascular diseases, dehydration and in patients taking diuretic drugs.
Lithium should not be used in pregnancy because it crosses the placenta and may cause malformations in the fetus. Therefore, its use in pregnancy should only be done under medical supervision. In addition, the use of Lithium during breastfeeding is also not recommended.