system
What are the side effects of Lithium?
human
My daughter is deing treated for bipolar, she has been taking sedatives for the last year but as her 6yr old son is ADHD and very hyper from early morning, she has found it hard to keep on top of the little guy. Now they want to try her on Lithium. Will this make it easier to cope with him and what if any side effects can she expect???
gpt
dear,if you are planing to shif on lithium here are some of the facts that you need to keep in mind and be prepared for-1) initially it may cause metallic like taste, which one doesn't need to worry as it can just be ignored.2) initially gastric upset like nause, vomitting is likely. however, one will gradually get adjusted to it in a due course. It should subside by initial three weeks antacids may help.3) get a baseline ECG and thyroid function test done, as lithium in a long run is commonly known to cause thyroid problems. After a stable serum level of lithium TFT can be repeated every three months.4) baseline renal function test is also must. lithium is a wonderful drug if a proper compliance and screening is maintained. avoid absolutely if pregnancy is being planned.thanks