LIthium, a drug used as a mood stabilizer in bipolar disorder, is known by the brand names Eskalith, Lithobid, and Eskalith-CR. Lithium can help minimize the extreme highs and lows associated with bipolar disorder and can also be used in treating schizophrenia when mood changes occur along with changes in cognition with the disease.
Lithium and Pregnancy
In women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, lithium can damage the unborn fetus, especially during the first three months of pregnancy, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Newborns who have too much lithium in their systems can display muscle weakness, shallow breathing, and lethargy. In some cases, lithium may be needed to prevent mania and stabilize mood during pregnancy, and the risks and benefits should be weighed, along with using the lowest possible effective dose, and close monitoring of both the mother and baby.
Common Side Effects
During the first few weeks of taking the lithium, nausea, diarrhea and loss of appetite are common, but these side effects tend to go away with time. Dizziness and tremors, weight gain, hypothyroidism, increased urination, excessive thirst, acne and skin rashes may also be seen.
Serious and Long-Term Side Effects
Some side effects can be signs of more serious problems and should be reported to the doctor immediately. These include slurred speech, muscle weakness, vomiting, mental confusion and worsening of tremors. Long-term side effects of this medication may include hypothyroidism and kidney damage. Both kidney function and thyroid levels can be monitored to minimize any risk or damage.
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