LITHIUM PILLS

BC Pills-Hormones-Lithium Side Effects BC Pills-Hormones-Lithium Side EffectsI have two related questions after reviewing all your Q/As and not finding an answer. Thank you for your time. I was dx'ed first with BP (extreme rapid cycler) 2 1/2 years ago, now 40 yo woman. I've been on numerous meds, mixed results, some side-effects too great (30+ pound weight gain, severe cognitive impairment) and now on Lithium (currently Eskalith 450 mg ER bid) and Carbamazepine (100 and 150 mg am and pm). My questions are about birth control pills, and hormones in general, and the side-effects of Lithium. About 8 months ago I D/C'ed birth control pills after having experienced about 6 months of bi-monthly periods (and not needing the protection at the time). My pdoc and I now know that this discontinuation of BC pills was likely associated with a severe bout of depression (4 months) followed by a hospitalization (suicidal ideation). I was put on Lithium bicarbonate and Eskalith in the hospital. I gained great stability on the meds, however, the side-effects also have been fairly severe. I experience severe vertigo 24/7. We d/c'ed the lithium bicarbonate in the am, but had a hypomanic swing fairly quickly. Added Eskalith 450 mg in the am, but the side-effects again have been severe-- yesterday I could hardly see straight due to the vertigo, hand trembling, nauseated. I know these are fairly subclinical doses, though the dosage seems to work for stability, I always experience profound side-effects from each and every med. I'm at a loss, fairly discouraged. Is there something I can do to counter the side-effects of Lithium that would allow me to keep taking it? It has provided more stability than any other med. Or, any other suggestions for a medication? When not stable I often cycle up to twice/day. When on a good dose of med, as now (other than the side-effect) I cycle only 1-2 times/week.