What sort of side-effects might occur if I am taking lithium?
Use the information in the table below to find out about side effects associated with the medication Lithium.
| Side effect | What happens | What to do about it |
|
COMMON |
||
|
Tremor |
Fine shaking of the hands |
This is not dangerous but can be irritating. If it annoys you, your doctor may be able to give you something for it (e.g. propranolol). If it gets worse and spreads to the legs or jaw, stop taking the lithium and see your doctor. |
|
Stomach upset |
This includes feeling and being sick and getting diarrhoea. |
If mild, see your pharmacist. If it lasts for more than a day, see your doctor |
|
Polyuria |
Passing a lot of urine. |
Don't drink too much alcohol. Tell your doctor about it. Some blood and urine tests may be needed. |
|
Metallic taste |
Your mouth tastes as if has had metal or something bitter in it. |
This should wear off after a few weeks. If it does not, mention this to your doctor next time you meet. A change in dose may help. |
|
Polydipsia |
Feeling very thirsty. Your mouth is dry and there may be a metallic taste. |
Drink water or low calorie drinks in moderation. Suck sugar-free boiled sweets. |
|
LESS COMMON |
||
|
Weight gain and fluid retention (oedema) |
Eating and drinking more and putting on weight. |
A diet full of vegetables and fibre may help prevent weight gain. Seek help from a dietician. See also a separate question in this section. |
|
Hypothyroidism |
Low thyroid activity - this makes you feel tired. |
This is generally mild and fairly easily treated, although if your thyroid gets very low this can be serious. Tell your doctor - it may be necessary to take a thyroid replacement. |
|
RARE |
||
|
Skin rashes |
Blotches seen anywhere. |
Stop taking and see your doctor. |
|
Blurred vision |
Things look fuzzy and you can't focus properly. |
Your lithium level may be too high. Stop taking lithium and contact your doctor now. |
|
Drowsiness |
Feeling sleepy and sluggish in the daytime. |
Your lithium level may be too high. Stop taking lithium and contact your doctor now. |
|
Confusion |
Your mind is all mixed up. |
Your lithium level may be too high. Stop taking lithium and contact your doctor now. |
|
Palpitations |
A fast heart beat. |
Your lithium level may be too high. Stop taking lithium and contact your doctor now. |
Table adapted from UK Psychiatric Pharmacy Group leaflets, with kind permission www.ukppg.org.uk
Do not be worried by this list of side effects. You may get none at all. There are other rare side-effects. If you develop any unusual symptoms ask your doctor about them next time you meet.
