Carbolith (Lithium)

Description

Carbolith (Lithium) is an antimanic agent. It is typically used for the treatment of bipolar disorder (extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression)). It may also have other uses.

Additional information

Carbolith (Lithium) is typically used two or three times daily. However, your doctor or pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed. Administer with meals.

WARNING: Lithium toxicity is closely related to serum concentrations and can occur at doses close to therapeutic levels. 

In addition to its desired action, Carbolith (Lithium) may cause some side effects, notably:
It may cause abnormal T waves on ECG (cardiac rhythm problems), bradycardia (slow heart rate), cardiac arrhythmia (cardiac rhythm problems), chest tightness, circulatory shock (rapid breathing, severe shortness of breath, sudden, rapid heartbeat, loss of consciousness).
It may cause acne vulgaris, alopecia (hair loss), dermal ulcer (skin lesion), exacerbation of psoriasis (skin disease), xeroderma (dry skin)
It may cause albuminuria (proteins in the urine), dehydration, diabetes insipidus, euthyroid goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland in the neck), glycosuria (glucose in the urine), hypercalcemia (high blood calcium), hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), hypermagnesemia (high blood magnesium), hyponatremia (low blood sodium), weight loss

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to lithium or any component of the formulation

Taking Carbolith (Lithium) during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use an effective contraceptive method. Pregnant women should not use this product. If you're planning a pregnancy or become pregnant or breastfeeding, contact your family doctor.

A treatment with Carbolith (Lithium) requires regular monitoring by a doctor. Be sure to see your doctor for all regularly scheduled appointments.Carbolith (Lithium)

Warning

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your doctor or pharmacist. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.