Brand Lithosun SR

Lithosun (Lithium Carbonate) has been widely used for over 20 years. It is highly effective in preventing attacks of depression or mania, by stabilising your chemistry. Lithosun is a salt, and not a sedative or tranquilliser. Lithosun is not addictive, and is intended to be taken even when you are well, to keep you well. Lithosun also makes antidepressants work more effectively in some cases.

Dosage and Administration:
The number of tablets you need is based on your blood test results. Being prescribed a high number of tablets does not mean you have a severe illness, but in fact means your kidneys are highly effective. Lithosun should be taken morning and night. Taking the tablets after meals may also reduce any side effects.

Side Effects:

• tiredness
• loss of appetite
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhoea
• hands shaking
• increased thirst
• consequently passing urine more often by day, and perhaps also by night
• sudden decreases in salt or fluid intake

Precautions:
The ability to tolerate lithium is greater during the acute manic phase and decreases when manic symptoms subside. Caution should be used when lithium and diuretics are used concomitantly because diuretic-induced sodium loss may reduce the renal clearance of lithium and increase serum lithium levels with risk of lithium toxicity. It is essential for the patient to maintain a normal diet, including salt, and an adequate fluid intake (2500-3000 ml.) at least during the initial stabilization period. Decreased tolerance to Lithosun has been reported to ensue from protracted sweating or diarrhea and, if such occur, supplemental fluid and salt should be administered under careful medical supervision and Lithosun intake reduced or suspended until the condition is resolved. A small number of people develop an underactive thyroid gland while on Lithosun.