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  • April 8, 2009

    Lithium medication: Reliable treatment for depression

    By David Mrazek, M.D.

38 comments posted

Lithium medication has been around for years and is often used to treat depression.

Need more help?
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
    1-800-273-TALK (8255)
  • Go to the nearest hospital or emergency room
  • Call your physician, health provider or clergy
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness
    www.nami.org
    1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
Lithium medication can also be used as a mood stabilizer for treating bipolar disorder. Lithium medication can be used together with other antidepressants to make them more effective. Those taking lithium need to have their blood tested periodically.

Possible lithium medication side effects include:

  • Increased urination
  • Tremors or shaking
  • Dulling of one's thinking
  • Nausea
  • Sedation
  • Kidney and thyroid disease

Lithium can interact with some medications, and not everyone is a candidate for lithium therapy. Talk with your health care provider for additional information, and share with the group if you've had success with lithium.

38 comments posted

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MY00639 April 8, 2009

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