Lithium (Systemic)
Brand Names : Cibalith-S, Eskalith, Eskalith CR, Lithane, Lithobid, Lithonate, Lithotabs, Carbolith, Duralith, Lithizine
Category- Antidepressant therapy adjunct
- Antimanic
- Granulopoietic
- Vascular headache prophylactic
DescriptionLithium (LITH-ee-um) is used to treat the manic
stage of bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness). Manic-depressive patients
experience severe mood changes, ranging from an excited or manic state (for
example, unusual anger or irritability or a false sense of well-being) to
depression or sadness. Lithium is used to reduce the frequency and severity
of manic states. Lithium may also reduce the frequency and severity of depression
in bipolar disorder.
It is not known how lithium works to stabilize a person's mood. However,
it does act on the central nervous system. It helps you to have more control
over your emotions and helps you cope better with the problems of living.
It is important that you and your family understand all the effects of
lithium. These effects depend on your individual condition and response and
the amount of lithium you use. You also must know when to contact your doctor
if there are problems with the medicine's use. Lithium may also be used for
other conditions as determined by your doctor.
This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the
following dosage forms:
Oral
-
Capsules (U.S. and Canada)
-
Slow-release capsules (Canada)
-
Syrup (U.S.)
-
Tablets (U.S. and Canada)
-
Extended-release tablets (U.S. and Canada)
Brand NamesSome commonly used brand names are:
In the U.S. -
- Cibalith-S
- Eskalith
- Eskalith CR
- Lithane
- Lithobid
- Lithonate
- Lithotabs
In Canada -
- Carbolith
- Duralith
- Lithane
- Lithizine
Generic name product may be available in the U.S.
|