I am taking my friend's lithium . . . and I love it!?

Question

I have been diagnosed as having post traumatic stress syndrome and think I may also be bi-polar (having done extensive internet research). I have not gone in for further diagnosis yet, but I am taking my friend's lithium (with her permission of course) as she is trying to get pregnant. I have never been happier. Is it wrong to take her lithium when it hasn't been prescribed to me?

Answer 1

There is a risk. Lithium Carbonate will, over time severely impair the liver and thyroid function. The function of these organs are monitored and lithium blood levels are taken at regular intervals to prevent a build up in the body and in order to determine the correct dose for you. You are taking it without medical supervision and could suffer serious side effects like liver dysfunction, hypothyroidism, hypertension, water retention and weight gain. I would go to your Doctor and explain what you have done and tell him/her of the beneficial effects that you are having and request a trial period of Lithium therapy under proper medical supervision. Jules, Australia.

Answer 2

You should seek professional help before you self diagnose yourself. Taking your friends lithium can be harmful to you. It may seem that you are OK now think about what may happen in the future. Don't believe everything you read on the net is true about medical diagnoses. You both can go to jail for taking her medication. She for providing it to you and you possession of a controlled substance that was not prescribed for you.

Answer 3

See your doctor immediately. The amount of Lithium needed to treat symptoms varies GREATLY among patients. Blood tests are required to determine that your thyroid and kidney functions are within normal ranges. Lithium is well-tolertated in most patients, but it is best to see your doctor and get your own prescription. There are too many variables!

Answer 4

It's wrong and it's dangerous. There are reasons why prescriptions are required. Stop trying to diagnose and treat yourself. Go back to the doctor, admit what you have done, and get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Answer 5

Lithium is an addictive drug. You should not be taking it at all. Yeah, it makes you happy NOW, but you will regret touching the stuff if you don't stop very quickly. Go to your own doctor. get your own prescription, NOT lithim. Try librium. Similar effects, no addiction!

Answer 6

It depends on how you define "wrong."

Mental health problems are so slippery for doctors to alleviate. It seems like no one knows what they are doing.

Im glad that you are getting relief. My fear for you is when you run out of the medication, you are going to be back to not feeling well again. And you may even feel worse since you had this relief.

Answer 7

This is a really good question. I believe this medication is a controlled substance that requires a doctor's prescription, to make sure it is dispensed to persons that actually need the medication, and that the other drugs required to counteract its side effects are taken.

However, you have to decide what is in your best interest.

Answer 8

Duh....yea, you dont know if that med is suited to ya! Could be causing you all sorts of future problems you are not even aware of...heart damage, liver damage.... you should see your doc, get advise, and be prescribed the correct meds... and get monitored at the same time to see if there are any changes within your stats... Jeez crazy!

Answer 9

I suggest you stop taking your friends meds and go see a doctor. It's very dangerous to take someone else's medication in addition to being illegal. If you were to die while taking her meds, say of an overdose or allergic reaction, your friend would be charged with manslaughter.

Answer 10

I really think you need professional help. Go see a doctor immediately! You don not need to be taking these kinds of medications without a doctor's supervision.