Side effects from lithium carbonate
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Side Effects of Lithium Carbonate: A Comprehensive Overview
Common Side Effects of Lithium Carbonate
Polyuria and Shakiness
Polyuria (excessive urination) and shakiness are frequently reported side effects of lithium carbonate. In a study involving male delinquents, these symptoms were noted as principal side effects during a 12-week medication period .
Hand Tremor, Dry Mouth, Nausea, and Weakness
Other significant side effects include hand tremor, dryness of mouth, nausea, and general weakness. These symptoms were consistently observed across multiple studies, indicating their common occurrence among patients undergoing lithium carbonate treatment 16.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea and diarrhea are also prevalent. Diarrhea, although reported less frequently, was notably associated with slow-release lithium sulfate preparations 46. Nausea was a common reason for discontinuation of the medication in several subjects .
Severe and Rare Side Effects
Lithium Intoxication
Lithium carbonate has a narrow therapeutic index, making it prone to toxicity. Acute lithium intoxication can lead to severe central nervous system and renal system complications, including prolonged comatose states, severe nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, and glucose intolerance 39. Management of such intoxication requires intensive care, hydration, and possibly dialysis .
Extrapyramidal Symptoms
Extrapyramidal side effects, such as cogwheeling (a type of muscle rigidity), have been observed in patients treated with lithium carbonate. Although rare, these symptoms confirm the neurological impact of lithium treatment .
Factors Influencing Side Effects
Age and Concomitant Medications
The incidence and severity of side effects can be influenced by the patient's age and the use of other psychiatric medications. Younger children tend to experience more side effects compared to older children, even after adjusting for factors like weight and serum lithium levels . Additionally, the use of antipsychotics and tricyclic antidepressants can exacerbate the severity of lithium side effects .
Serum Lithium Levels
High serum lithium levels are correlated with an increased frequency of side effects such as nausea and general fatigue. Maintaining optimal serum lithium levels is crucial to minimizing these adverse effects .
Conclusion
Lithium carbonate is an effective treatment for bipolar disorder and acute mania but comes with a range of side effects. Common side effects include polyuria, shakiness, hand tremor, dry mouth, nausea, and weakness. More severe side effects, such as lithium intoxication and extrapyramidal symptoms, although rare, require careful monitoring and management. Factors such as age, concomitant medications, and serum lithium levels significantly influence the incidence and severity of these side effects. Understanding these factors can help in optimizing treatment and improving patient compliance.
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