Lithium Carbonate

Lithium Carbonate

Lithium Carbonate is prescribed for the management of bipolar disorder, commonly known as manic-depressive illness. It functions by restoring the equilibrium of specific natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain to stabilize mood and reduce extreme behaviors. Regular use of this medication can lead to fewer manic episodes and reduce the intensity of symptoms associated with these episodes, including excessive irritability, euphoria, paranoia, rapid anxiety, loud speech, and aggressive or hostile actions. So, if you want to buy Lithium Carbonate online to manage bipolar disorder, you need to get a valid prescription from your doctor.

Product Overview

Lithium Carbonate is a widely recognized medication prescribed for the management of bipolar disorder, which affects mood by altering the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. It is crucial for stabilizing mood and reducing episodes of mania and depression. Available in various forms—tablets, capsules, and liquid—the medication offers flexibility in dosing and administration. This drug is crucial for both the acute and long-term management of bipolar disorder. 

The typical daily dosage for acute mania can reach up to 1800 mg, divided throughout the day depending on the formulation (extended or regular release). In maintenance therapy, doses range from 900 mg to 1200 mg per day, which helps prevent recurrent manic episodes and maintains mood stability. Despite its benefits, Lithium Carbonate requires careful usage due to its potential side effects, which can range from nausea and tremors to more severe effects like confusion and vision changes. These adverse reactions necessitate regular monitoring by a healthcare professional, especially during the initial stages of treatment or when adjusting the dose.

Furthermore, Lithium Carbonate has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning the difference between an effective dose and a toxic dose is small. This requires patients to adhere strictly to their prescribed doses and maintain regular consultations with their healthcare provider to manage their condition safely. It’s essential for patients to understand not only the potential benefits but also the risks associated with its use. Patients can effectively manage their conditions by working closely with healthcare providers while minimizing potential side effects.

What Are the Uses of Lithium Carbonate?

Lithium Carbonate is used for: 

• Managing Bipolar Disorder
• Managing Mania

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Lithium Carbonate?

This medication is available in tablet, capsule and liquid form with the following strengths:

• The tablet form: 

• • • Controlled-release variant of 450 mg 
    • Slow-release formulation of 300 mg

• The capsule form:

• • • 150 mg 
    • 300 mg 
    • 600 mg 

• The liquid form:

• • 8 mEq/5 mL oral solution

What Is the Recommended Dosage of Lithium Carbonate?

Recommended Dosage of Lithium Carbonate

Acute Management of Mania

• Standard Dose: The typical total daily dose is 1800 mg.
  • For Extended Release Formulations: Administer 900 mg orally, both in the morning and at nighttime.
  • For Regular Release Formulations: Administer 600 mg orally three times daily, distributed evenly across the morning, afternoon, and evening.

Long-term Management of Mania:

• Maintenance Dose: The maintenance dosage ranges from 900 mg to 1200 mg per day.
  • For Extended Release Formulations: Administer 600 mg orally twice daily, once in the morning and once at nighttime.
  • For Regular Release Formulations: Administer 300 mg orally three to four times daily, spread throughout the day.

Primary Uses:

• Acute Treatment: Used for controlling manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder.
• Maintenance Treatment: Helps in the ongoing management of bipolar disorder, preventing the recurrence of manic episodes.

Adult Dosage for Acute Management of Bipolar Disorder:

• Standard Dose: The general recommendation for acute episodes is 1800 mg per day.
  • For Extended Release Formulations: 900 mg should be taken orally, divided into morning and nighttime doses.
  • For Regular Release Formulations: 600 mg should be taken orally three times a day, with doses in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

Long-term Management of Bipolar Disorder:

• Maintenance Dose: To maintain therapeutic benefits, the dosage should be between 900 mg and 1200 mg per day.
  • For Extended Release Formulations: Take 600 mg orally twice a day, once in the morning and once at nighttime.
  • For Regular Release Formulations: Take 300 mg orally three to four times a day, ensuring doses are evenly spaced.

Primary Uses:

• Treatment of Acute Episodes: Effective in the management of acute manic and mixed episodes in bipolar disorder.
• Long-term Maintenance: Aids in the stabilization of mood, preventing the onset of both manic and depressive episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder.

Pediatric Dosage for Mania for Children Aged 12 Years and Older:

• Standard Dose: Typically, the dose is set at 1800 mg per day.
  • For Extended Release Formulations: Administer 900 mg orally, divided into morning and nighttime doses.
  • For Regular Release Formulations: Administer 600 mg orally three times a day, with dosing scheduled for morning, afternoon, and nighttime.

Long-term Management of Mania:

• Maintenance Dose: The ongoing maintenance dosage ranges from 900 mg to 1200 mg daily.
  • For Extended Release Formulations: 600 mg should be administered orally twice daily, once in the morning and once at nighttime.
  • For Regular Release Formulations: 300 mg should be administered orally three to four times daily, spaced evenly throughout the day.

Primary Uses:

• Acute Treatment: Utilized for managing acute manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder.
• Maintenance Treatment: Helps in the continuous management of bipolar disorder, aiming to prevent the recurrence of manic episodes.

Usual Pediatric Dosage for Bipolar Disorder for Children Aged 12 Years and Older:

• Standard Dose: The recommended dosage for managing acute episodes is 1800 mg per day.
  • For Extended Release Formulations: 900 mg is taken orally, split between morning and nighttime.
  • For Regular Release Formulations: 600 mg is taken orally three times daily, timed for morning, afternoon, and evening.

Long-term Management of Bipolar Disorder:

• Maintenance Dose: To maintain control over symptoms, the dosage is typically between 900 mg and 1200 mg per day.
  • For Extended Release Formulations: Administer 600 mg orally twice daily, in the morning and at nighttime.
  • For Regular Release Formulations: Administer 300 mg orally three to four times a day, ensuring an even distribution throughout the day.

Primary Uses:

• Treatment of Acute Episodes: Effective in controlling acute manic and mixed episodes in pediatric patients with bipolar disorder.
• Long-term Maintenance: Essential for the long-term stability of mood, preventing the onset of further manic or depressive episodes in pediatric patients.

[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]

How to Use Lithium Carbonate?

When you buy Lithium Carbonate online from Canada, you should follow the guidelines on how to take this medication. These are:

• Different brands of this medication may not produce the same effects. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before switching brands.
• Take this medication orally as prescribed, usually 2-3 times daily, with or immediately after meals to reduce stomach upset.
• Do not crush or chew the medication. Swallow whole or split tablets intact unless they have a score line and you are advised by your doctor or pharmacist to split them.
• Drink 8 to 12 glasses (8 ounces or 240 milliliters each) of water or other fluids daily and maintain a normal salt intake as directed by your doctor or dietician. Avoid making significant changes to the amount of salt in your diet unless instructed by your doctor.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Take it at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level in your body, and take doses at evenly spaced intervals for the best results.
• Take this medication precisely as directed. Continue using Lithium even if you feel well.
• Do not discontinue this medication without consulting your doctor, as some conditions may worsen if the drug is abruptly stopped.
• If your condition does not improve or if it worsens, inform your doctor.
• It may take 1 to 3 weeks to observe any improvement in your condition.

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

How Does Lithium Carbonate Work?

Lithium Carbonate functions by moderating the hyperactivity of nerve cells in the brain. It achieves this by interfering with the transmission of nerve impulses, which are responsible for communication between neurons. This suppression of excessive neuronal activity helps stabilize mood and is particularly effective in treating conditions characterized by intense and fluctuating emotions, such as bipolar disorder. By restoring balance to the neural pathways, Lithium Carbonate can reduce instances of mania and depression, leading to more stable psychological states.

Important Safety Information for Using Lithium Carbonate

What Are the Side Effects of Lithium Carbonate?

Common Side Effects of Lithium Carbonate: When you buy Lithium Carbonate online, you can consider the common side effects associated with this medication, which include:

• Nausea and Vomiting: It’s not uncommon for patients to experience gastrointestinal discomfort, leading to feelings of nausea or instances of vomiting.
• Increased White Blood Cell Count: While often a sign of an immune response, an increased white blood cell count can occur, which typically does not indicate a serious problem but should be monitored.
• Weight Gain: Patients may notice an increase in weight. Monitoring diet and engaging in regular physical activity can help manage this side effect.
• Polyuria: This condition involves the production of large volumes of dilute urine, which can be bothersome and frequent.
• Headache: Occasional headaches may occur, which vary in intensity.
• Dryness in Mouth: A persistent dry mouth can be uncomfortable, leading to difficulties in swallowing, chewing, and speaking.
• Hand Tremors: Fine shakes or tremors in the hands are a notable side effect, potentially interfering with daily activities.
• Muscle Weakness: Some individuals may experience general feelings of muscle weakness.
• Confusion and Decreased Memory: Cognitive effects such as confusion or memory impairment can affect the ability to perform tasks that require concentration and focus.
• Feeling Thirsty: An increased thirst is commonly reported, which may also contribute to the polyuria.
• ECG Changes: Electrocardiogram changes might be observed, which are usually minor but require regular monitoring.
• Vertigo: Some patients might experience vertigo, a type of dizziness that can affect balance and coordination.

Serious Side Effects of Lithium Carbonate: While rare, Lithium Carbonate can cause serious side effects. This includes:

• Diarrhea: If you experience diarrhea while taking Lithium Carbonate, it is important to notify your healthcare provider immediately, as this could be a sign of a serious adverse effect.
• Unsteady Walk: An unsteady gait or difficulty walking steadily is a concerning side effect of Lithium Carbonate and warrants prompt medical attention.
• Confusion and Speech Trouble: If you find yourself becoming confused or having trouble with speaking, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately, as these can be indicators of serious neurological effects.
• Blurred Vision: This is another serious effect of Lithium Carbonate. It should not be overlooked and must be reported to your doctor, as it may signify a severe adverse response.
• Severe Hand Trembling (Coarse Tremor): Notify your doctor immediately if you experience severe hand trembling, also known as coarse tremor, which is a significant side effect of this medication.
• Vision Changes: When you notice any changes in your vision, such as a growing blind spot or a sudden loss of vision, it is important to seek immediate medical attention, as these can be severe ocular side effects of Lithium Carbonate.
• Joint Swelling/Pain: This condition can occur as a serious adverse effect of Lithium Carbonate; therefore, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about these symptoms.
• Muscle Weakness: This is associated with the use of Lithium Carbonate and should be communicated to your doctor immediately, as it may indicate a severe reaction.
• Pain/Discoloration of Fingers or Toes and Cold Hands/Feet: If you experience pain or discoloration of your fingers or toes, or if they feel unusually cold, these symptoms should be reported right away, as they can be serious circulatory side effects of the medication.

[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all potential side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver or doctor for medical advice about side effects.]

Are There Any Warnings for Lithium Carbonate? 

This medication comes with some severe warnings, which include:

• Pregnancy Warning: Do not use Lithium without informing your doctor if you are pregnant as it could harm the unborn baby. Utilize effective birth control measures and notify your doctor immediately if you become pregnant during treatment.
• Risk of Lithium Toxicity: Lithium toxicity can be fatal. This medication has a narrow safety range, and toxicity may occur even if you take slightly more than the recommended dose.
• Symptoms of Lithium Toxicity: Discontinue use and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any symptoms of lithium toxicity, which may include muscle weakness, twitching, feeling light-headed, drowsiness, blurred vision, mood changes, ringing in your ears, confusion, irregular heartbeats, slurred speech, trouble breathing clumsiness, or seizures.

What Are the Lithium Carbonate Precautions?

Lithium Carbonate should not be used by individuals who have a known allergy to the medication. It’s crucial to confirm the safety of this medicine for your specific health condition. Before starting Lithium, you must inform your doctor of any past medical history, especially if you have experienced or are currently managing the following conditions:

• Respiratory Issues: Any history of breathing difficulties should be discussed with your healthcare provider, as Lithium may exacerbate these conditions.
• Cardiac Conditions: If you have heart disease, it’s essential to monitor how Lithium might affect your cardiovascular health.
• Renal Impairments: Since Lithium is processed through the kidneys, existing kidney disease could affect the medication’s safety and effectiveness. Regular kidney function tests may be required.
• Thyroid Disorders: Lithium Carbonate can impact thyroid function. If you have a thyroid disorder, your doctor may need to adjust your treatment plan and monitor your thyroid levels more closely.
• Electrocardiograph Anomalies: An abnormal ECG or EKG could indicate major issues, such as a worsening Lithium level. It’s important to have a clear cardiovascular health assessment before and during treatment.
• History of Fainting Spells: Episodes of fainting or other related symptoms should be thoroughly evaluated as they could be exacerbated by Lithium usage.
• Family History of Early Mortality: If you have a family history of relatives dying before age 45, particularly from unknown or hereditary conditions, this could be significant when considering Lithium treatment, as some risks may be genetic.

What If You Missed a Dose of Lithium Carbonate?

If you miss a dose of Lithium Carbonate, please take this medication as soon as you can. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled Lithium Carbonate dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose, as taking two doses at once can increase the risk of side effects.

[Note: If you have missed a dose of your medication and are unsure about when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]

What Happens If You Take Too Much of Lithium Carbonate?

In the event of an overdose, stop taking Lithium immediately and seek emergency medical attention. You can also contact the Poison Helpline at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. Signs of Lithium toxicity, which may indicate an overdose, include symptoms such as vomiting, muscle weakness, diarrhea, drowsiness, or loss of coordination.

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

How to Store a Lithium Carbonate?

If you buy Lithium Carbonate online to manage bipolar disorder, you should consider the following storage guidelines:

• Store Lithium Carbonate in a dry, well-ventilated environment away from direct sunlight.
• Keep it away from humid, acidic, or alkaline substances to prevent deterioration or damage.
• Dry, clean, and well-sealed containers are used to store Lithium Carbonate, ensuring that the containers are undamaged and properly sealed.
• Keep Lithium Carbonate away from ignition sources, as it releases significant heat when in contact with water, which could lead to a fire hazard.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to air to prevent reactions with moisture and carbon dioxide, which can cause deterioration.
• Quickly close containers after accessing the medication to maintain its integrity.

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

What Are Common Lithium Carbonate Interactions?

There are several interactions to consider when you buy Lithium Carbonate online to manage bipolar disorder. Some of them are listed below: 

• Interaction Between Diuretic Drugs (“Water Pills”) and Lithium Carbonate: Diuretic medications, commonly referred to as “water pills,” can significantly affect the body’s sodium balance. These medications increase the rate at which the kidneys expel sodium through urine. When sodium levels decrease, the concentration of Lithium in the body may rise, potentially intensifying both the therapeutic effects and side effects of Lithium Carbonate. This interaction necessitates careful monitoring to avoid Lithium toxicity, which can manifest as severe side effects, including tremors, confusion, and renal dysfunction.
• Interaction Between Serotonergic Drugs and Lithium Carbonate: Lithium Carbonate has a pronounced effect on the brain’s serotonin levels, a key neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation. When used in conjunction with other medications that also enhance serotonin (such as certain antidepressants or supplements), there is a risk of serotonin syndrome. This condition is characterized by an excess of serotonin and can lead to serious health issues such as cardiac complications, seizures, and severe gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting. It’s crucial to manage the dosage and monitor for signs of serotonin excess when these drugs are used together.
• Moderate Interaction with ACE Inhibitors and Lithium Carbonate: Medications for high blood pressure, particularly ACE inhibitors, can lead to an increase in Lithium concentrations in the body. This occurs because ACE inhibitors can reduce the kidneys’ ability to clear Lithium, raising its levels and thereby enhancing both its effects and potential toxicities. Patients taking this combination may require dose adjustments and regular blood level checks to prevent Lithium toxicity. Drugs like captopril and enalapril can modify Lithium levels in the body.
• Interaction Between Calcium Channel Blockers and Lithium: Calcium channel blockers, another class of medications used to treat high blood pressure, can interact with Lithium Carbonate in different ways. While some calcium channel blockers might increase the side effects associated with Lithium Carbonate by altering its elimination from the body, others could potentially decrease the effective concentration of Lithium in the blood. This interaction suggests a need for careful monitoring and possibly adjusting the Lithium Carbonate dosage to maintain its therapeutic effectiveness.
• Interaction Between Anticonvulsants and Lithium Carbonate: Anticonvulsants, used primarily to prevent seizures, influence neurotransmitter levels in the brain similarly to Lithium. When taken together, these medications can amplify the side effects of Lithium, leading to heightened toxicity risks. This combination requires vigilant monitoring of Lithium levels, side effects, and overall brain function to ensure safety and effectiveness in managing symptoms.
• Interaction Between Methyldopa (Aldomet) and Lithium: Methyldopa, a medication used to manage high blood pressure, may interact with Lithium by amplifying both its therapeutic effects and side effects. This interaction can lead to increased Lithium levels, which might cause symptoms such as tremors, nausea, and confusion, indicative of Lithium toxicity. It is crucial for patients to only take Lithium with methyldopa under direct medical supervision to ensure safe and effective treatment, adjusting dosages as necessary based on clinical response and blood level monitoring.
• Interaction Between Methylxanthines and Lithium: Methylxanthines, a group of stimulants that includes aminophylline, caffeine, and theophylline, can accelerate the renal clearance of Lithium, leading to decreased Lithium levels in the blood. This reduction can potentially undermine the effectiveness of Lithium in treating mood disorders. Patients may require adjustments in their Lithium dosage to compensate for the increased clearance and maintain therapeutic drug levels.
• Interaction Between Muscle Relaxants and Lithium: This medication may prolong the effects of muscle relaxants, which are often used to relieve muscle spasms and discomfort. When used concurrently, Lithium can increase the duration and intensity of the muscle relaxant’s action, which might lead to an increased risk of side effects such as drowsiness, weakness, and respiratory depression. Close monitoring and possibly adjusting the dosage of the muscle relaxant are recommended when taken alongside Lithium.
• Interaction Between NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) and Lithium: NSAIDs can increase the levels of Lithium in the body by reducing its excretion through the kidneys. This interaction heightens the risk of Lithium toxicity, characterized by symptoms like severe tremors, gastrointestinal distress, and altered mental status. Patients are generally advised to avoid simultaneous use of NSAIDs and Lithium unless their healthcare provider deems it safe and necessary, in which case frequent monitoring of Lithium blood levels is essential.
• Interaction Between Phenothiazines and Lithium: Phenothiazines, used primarily as antipsychotics, can diminish the effectiveness of Lithium and vice versa, potentially decreasing the therapeutic effects of both medications. This interaction could lead to worsening of psychiatric symptoms and may require adjustments in the treatment regimen, including dosage changes or alternative medications to achieve optimal clinical outcomes.
• Interaction Between Antipsychotic Drugs and Lithium: Regular use of Lithium Carbonate with certain antipsychotic medications can lead to serious adverse effects, including potential brain damage. These severe reactions might be due to an additive or synergistic effect on neurotransmitter systems or neurotoxicity. It is critically important for patients not to combine Lithium with antipsychotic drugs without strict medical guidance. 

[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Lithium Carbonate. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]

What Are the Lithium Carbonate Alternatives?

When considering alternatives to Lithium Carbonate for the treatment of bipolar disorder, it’s essential to understand the different medications available and how they compare. Here are some of the alternatives:

• Seroquel (Quetiapine)
• Latuda (Lurasidone)
• Abilify Maintena (Aripiprazole Injection)
• Lamotrigine (Lamictal)

[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]

Lithium Carbonate Cost & Coupons

Lithium Carbonate is used to manage bipolar disorder, but the high cost in the US can be a significant financial burden for many patients. Fortunately, US residents can explore more affordable alternatives by buying Lithium Carbonate from Canadian pharmacies. Polar Bear Meds is a reliable option that offers competitive pricing on medications. By applying the Lithium Carbonate coupon code “WELCOMEPB10” during checkout, customers can enjoy a 10% discount on their first purchase. Additionally, participating in the referral program can lead to even more savings, including a free coupon for future orders. Take advantage of these cost-saving opportunities to buy Lithium Carbonate online from Canada and reduce your medication expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly does Lithium Carbonate work?

When starting treatment with Lithium Carbonate, it’s important to understand that noticeable improvements in your symptoms may not be immediate. The response time can vary significantly among individuals, with some experiencing benefits within 1 to 3 weeks, while others might take longer to feel the full effects of the medication. If you do not observe immediate improvements, it’s crucial not to discontinue Lithium Carbonate on your own. Instead, it is advisable to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your progress.

Does Lithium Carbonate make you sleepy?

Yes, Lithium Carbonate may cause certain side effects affecting the nervous system, such as sleepiness, dizziness, and confusion. It might also impact your vision, leading to symptoms like rapid eye movements, blurred vision, or the appearance of blind spots. If you experience any of these issues while taking Lithium Carbonate, it’s crucial to speak with your doctor about them. Due to these side effects, it’s advisable to avoid activities that require full alertness and precise coordination, like driving or operating heavy machinery, as they could become unsafe.

Is Lithium Carbonate bad for the kidneys?

Yes, Lithium Carbonate has been linked to potential kidney complications. This medication is generally not recommended for patients with significant kidney impairments due to the risk it poses. The associated kidney problems could potentially be irreversible, manifesting symptoms such as swollen ankles, frequent urination, and an unusual increase in thirst. Before initiating treatment with Lithium Carbonate, it is standard practice for your healthcare provider to conduct complete blood tests to assess your kidney function and ensure it is within normal limits. Once treatment has begun, it is crucial to monitor any changes in kidney function, even subtle ones that fall within the normal range. These changes could signal a need for a reassessment of your treatment plan to prevent further renal damage.

Can Lithium Carbonate cause a gain in weight?

Lithium Carbonate can influence body weight, potentially leading to either weight gain or weight loss, depending on individual responses to the medication. It’s important for patients on Lithium Carbonate therapy to monitor their weight regularly. If significant weight gain or loss is observed, it is crucial to consult with your doctor. The healthcare provider can evaluate whether these weight changes are a side effect of Lithium Carbonate or caused by other factors. They may also offer strategies or adjustments to the treatment plan if necessary to manage this side effect.

How should Lithium Carbonate be taken?

Lithium Carbonate should be taken strictly according to the prescription provided by your healthcare provider. If there is any confusion or uncertainty about the prescribed regimen, it is essential to consult with your doctor for clarification. This medication is intended for oral use and can be taken with or without food. However, it is vital to maintain consistency in your dietary habits while on Lithium Carbonate. Significant changes in your diet, especially those affecting fluid intake or sodium levels, can alter the effectiveness and safety of the medication. These changes might necessitate more frequent monitoring of Lithium levels in your body to ensure they remain within a therapeutic range. 

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