Lithium Carbonate Side Effects

Lithium carbonate is an inorganic compound that is popularly used for the treatment of bipolar depression and manic-depressive illness. Salts of lithium, other than carbonate form, have been used for therapeutic treatment of several ailments since 150 years ago. In the early 1900s, studies conducted on lithium carbonate revealed that this compound is effective for the treatment of depression diseases. Since then, lithium carbonate is prescribed for managing the symptoms of depression along with other anti-depressive medications. Nevertheless, it is to be noted that there are several lithium carbonate side effects, if not administered properly.

Lithium Carbonate: Properties and Uses

Pure lithium carbonate is a white, alkaline powder. Basic lithium carbonate properties are more or less similar to other alkali carbonates. It is slightly soluble in water under low temperature conditions. Its insolubility in water increases with a rise in temperature. On the contrary, lithium carbonate solubility can be enhanced by incorporating a specific amount of carbon dioxide.

As already mentioned, lithium carbonate is used for the treatment of mental illnesses. Some of the diseases treated by using lithium carbonate include emotional instability, mood changes, schizoaffective problems and at times, stomach upset. In addition to the medical intervention of calcium carbonate, this alkaline compound is also used in the manufacturing industries.

Lithium Carbonate: Side Effects

Lithium carbonate, when administered in the body, affects the activity of other electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and calcium. According to medical studies, it is claimed that lithium ions regulate the messages conveyed to the brain, either by delaying or amplifying the signal. For therapeutic usage, oral tablets and liquid syrup based on lithium carbonate compound are available in various brand names in the market.

The intake dosage of lithium carbonate is very critical. If taken in low doses, this compound is not harmful; whereas, if administered in excessive doses, it leads to lithium toxicity. The required dosage of lithium carbonate varies depending upon the age, sensitivity to lithium ions and the overall health condition of the patient. For example, low lithium carbonate dosage is usually prescribed for elderly people. Hence, it is always advisable to take lithium carbonate under medical supervision

Lithium carbonate is a slow acting compound; the effectiveness of lithium carbonate may be profound about 2 - 3 weeks, after one has started administering the medications. The possible side effects of lithium carbonate are increased thirst, nausea, drowsiness, vomiting, diarrhea, frequent urination, irritation, discomfort, lack of coordination, thyroid insufficiency, thinning of hair, hand tremor and muscle fatigue. At higher concentrations, severe effects like blurred vision, tinnitus (ringing ears) and large urine output may be observed.

Mild adverse effects of lithium carbonate are commonly observed, which subside after lowering the dosage intake. In severe cases, the physician may recommend cessation of lithium carbonate therapy. Speaking about the interaction of lithium carbonate with other medications, this compound should not be taken with diuretics, as it may lead to renal problems. As a part of lithium carbonate therapy, the physician often monitors the serum lithium levels for any abrupt changes.

In case of fever or other health conditions, one should seek advice from the concerned physician about the continuation of lithium carbonate intake. In order to minimize the side effects of lithium carbonate, one should consume a well balanced diet and drink ample amount of water (about 10 - 12 glasses). As of now, clinical trials regarding the effects of calcium carbonate on pregnant women and children are lacking. Hence, for safety purposes, children, pregnant women, lactating women and those who are planning to become pregnant should abstain from lithium carbonate medications.