Just began taking Lithium Carbonate....?

Question

I'm seriously worried about weight gain (I'm petite and in very good shape) and acne. Everything I've read from people online say they've experienced such horrible side effects: hand tremors, thirst, instant weight gain, acne, etc. Is there anyone out there who has NOT had these negative side effects?

Answer 1

I started taking Li2Co3 when I was 20 years old (I am 39 now). I did experience some hand tremors, and weight gain was definitely obvious for me.

However, when I switched to other medications meant for treatment of epilepsy a few years ago, these did not effectively address my bipolar condition, causing me to lapse into depression cycles several times.

In the end, I switched back to Li2CO3 and my condition has been stable since. I have decided that the side effects (especially aesthetic ones such as weight gain) are worth bearing with in order to maintain a healthy mental state and general well-being.

In any case, all the side effects can be dealt with, such as drinking more water and exercising more. Different people may have different reactions to the medicine, so do consult your doctor/psychiatrist regularly, give feedback about how you feel and the side effects you may be feeling, and heed his/her advice on what to do.

All the best and take care!

Answer 2

lithium is a wonderful drug with a very interesting history. First off it is for manic/depression, otherwise known as bipolar disorder. we don't know why or how it really works. it is a nature element, a salt actually. I took it for years and had no side effects at all. good luck everyone is different.

Answer 3

I had severe thirst and weight gain. I hated it, and Lithium didnt help me. I eventually went off of it, and got on Neurontin. Works MUCH better for me.

Answer 4

You have to adust to small problems. You are taking it to avoid bigger problems.