Lithium carbonate - MSN Health Fitness - Health TopicsLithium carbonate (Eskalith and Lithobid) is effective in balancing mood in people with bipolar disorder. How it works is not completely understood. It may affect certain brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) that cause mood changes. Lithium carbonate is a salt and acts like other salts (such as sodium) in the body. Any change in the balance between body salts and liquids (mostly water) in the body can change the amount of lithium carbonate in the blood. Lithium carbonate blood levels need to be kept within a safe range. High levels can cause serious side effects, even death; low levels can cause symptoms of mania or depression. You will need to learn how to keep your lithium carbonate blood levels at a safe and effective level and to recognize the signs of high lithium carbonate, which include drowsiness, muscle twitching, and diarrhea. LITHIUM CARBONATE: Side effects, ratings, and patient comments ] [Research Assistant] [Opinion Polls] [Reports by Treatment Category] [News] [Privacy] [Contact Us] [Home]I started lithium 3 months ago but I am thinking of switching to lamictal due to all the sideffects from Li. I have lost my zest for life and ability to focus and be productive. On the other hand, have not been manic but I was mostly hypomanic before except that the PTSD caused more acute episodes. I am confused and would really appreciate any feedback or suggestions. Also I am concerned about longterm side effect like the thyroid problem.started at 300mg in the morning and 600mg at night. Also on 20 mg celexa. That was enough because when they raised me to 600 both morning and night the side effects were a lot worse. Since the start i had diarrhea every time i went to the bathroom to urinate, they said that would go away but the whole 9 months i was on it, the diarrhea didn't.
