Lithium is a medication that is used widely for the treatment of bipolar disorder or manic depression. It can also be used for maintenance treatment in the long term management of bipolar depression. Lithium is a positively charged molecule. Within the body it acts at cellular and molecular levels.
It acts within the cell and also at the cell surface. It binds to molecules like calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium which mediate several important biochemical reactions within the body. How exactly lithium functions in managing the symptoms of bipolar disorder is not known. Lithium interferes with the production, uptake and functioning of neurotransmitters in the brain. It also affects the levels of serotonin and tryptophan in the brain. This could explain why it is effective in treatment of bipolar associated depression.
This prescription drug is manufactured by a number of pharmaceutical companies. It is available in the forms of tablets, capsules, extended release capsules and syrup. Dosage should be adjusted depending on the patient. It is essential to monitor blood levels of lithium constantly since excess amounts of this mineral can cause lithium toxicity. This medication causes some side effects like headaches, nausea, hair loss, increased thirst and urination. The symptoms cease as the body begins to adjust to the doses of lithium.
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Lithium Antidepressant Information
