Diabetes insipidus is a condition in which your kidneys are unable to conserve water. The amount of water your body conserves is controlled by anti-diuretic hormone, which is produced by a region in your brain called the hypothalamus. Diabetes insipidus can be classified either as central or nephrogenic. Lithium salts may cause nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, according to PubMedHealth.
Lithium Salts and Diabetes Insipidus
Lithium salts are chemical salts of lithium mineral used as mood stabilizers and in the treatment of mania episodes in people with bipolar disorder. Lithium salts may cause nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, which may persist even after discontinuation of the drug, according to Drugs.com. Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus is a condition in which your kidneys fail to respond to anti-diuretic hormone.
Symptoms of Diabetes Insipidus
When taking lithium, be aware of the symptoms of diabetes insipidus so that you can seek early treatment. Symptoms of diabetes insipidus include excessive thirst, excessive excretion of diluted urine, urinating at night, bed wetting and craving for ice water, according to MayoClinic. If you have a child with diabetes insipidus, he may experience delayed growth, inconsolable cry, dry skin, cold skin, fever, vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss.
Lithium Administration
Lithium salts are available as regular tablets, extended-release tablets, capsules and liquid to be taken orally. The regular tablets, capsules and liquid are usually taken three to four times a day. Extended-release tablets are usually taken two or three times a day, according to PubMedHealth. Swallow extended-release tablets whole without chewing or crushing them. Take the prescribed dose of lithium at the same time every day. Do not stop taking lithium without consulting your doctor. Increase salt and fluid intake while taking lithium to prevent toxicity. The doctor may order regular blood work to monitor the levels of lithium in your blood.
Lithium Toxicity
Stop taking lithium and call your doctor if you notice symptoms of lithium toxicity such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle weakness, drowsiness, blurred vision, ringing in your ears, tremors, hallucinations, convulsions, rapid heart rate, restlessness, eye pain, fainting, lack of coordination and muscle movements in your eyes, jaw, tongue or neck, according to Drugs.com.
