Lithium Carbonate 400mg

Lithium Carbonate 400mg — Uses and Benefits

Lithium Carbonate is used to treat mental health conditions involving mood swings, especially bipolar disorder.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treating manic episodes in bipolar disorder
• Preventing future episodes of mania and depression
• Sometimes used to treat severe depression that does not respond to other treatments
• Occasionally used to reduce aggressive or self-harming behaviour under specialist care

HOW IT WORKS

• It helps stabilise chemical activity in the brain that controls mood
• It reduces the intensity and frequency of manic and depressive episodes
• It helps restore a more balanced and even mood over time

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller or sleep medicine
• It is not used for everyday stress or mild anxiety
• It is not a quick-relief medicine and does not work immediately
• It is not meant for occasional or as-needed use

How to Use Lithium Carbonate 400mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with food to reduce stomach upset
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Take it at the same time(s) each day to maintain steady blood levels
• Drink plenty of fluids and maintain normal salt intake unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can cause relapse of symptoms
• Regular blood tests are needed to check lithium levels, kidney function, and thyroid function

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss several doses, inform your doctor before restarting

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture
• Keep in original packaging, away from direct sunlight
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Lithium Carbonate 400mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Mild hand tremor
• Nausea or upset stomach
• Weight gain

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Metallic taste in mouth
• Diarrhoea
• Muscle weakness
• Mild memory or concentration problems
• Acne or skin rash

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe vomiting or diarrhoea
• Confusion or unusual drowsiness
• Slurred speech or loss of coordination
• Severe or worsening tremor
• Blurred vision
• Irregular heartbeat
• Signs of lithium toxicity such as severe weakness, muscle twitching, or fainting

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Lithium Carbonate 400mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India and should never be self-prescribed.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to lithium or any ingredient in the tablet
• Have severe kidney disease
• Have severe heart disease
• Are dehydrated or on a very low-salt diet
• Are pregnant, especially in the first trimester, unless specifically advised by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any kidney, heart, or thyroid problems
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have epilepsy or a history of seizures
• Are on a low-sodium diet or take diuretics (water pills)
• Have diabetes or any other chronic illness

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Diuretics (water tablets)
• NSAID painkillers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac
• ACE inhibitors or ARBs used for blood pressure
• Certain antidepressants and antipsychotics
• Medicines affecting kidney function

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to work?

It may take one to two weeks or longer to show full benefit, and regular use is important even if you feel well.

Why do I need blood tests while on this medicine?

Lithium levels must stay within a narrow safe range, so regular blood tests help prevent toxicity and check kidney and thyroid health.

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

• No, stopping suddenly can cause your symptoms to return; any changes should be made only under your doctor's guidance.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.