Mood stabilisers - lithium

5 important questions on Mood stabilisers - lithium

What are the common side effects of lithium?

A. Common & dose-related (often early clues) Think “water + wobble”
  • Excessive thirst
  • Frequent urination (polyuria)
  • Mild loss of coordination
  • Fine tremor
B. Neurological toxicity (HIGH-YIELD) Think “brain poisoning”
  • Loss of coordination (ataxia)
  • Slurred speech
  • Changes in vision
  • Blackouts
  • Hallucinations
  • Seizures
C. Cardiac toxicity (SERIOUS) Think “electrical problems”
  • Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias)
D. Allergic / emergency reactions (STOP DRUG) Think “don’t miss this”
  • Rash / itching
  • Swelling of tongue and throat (angioedema)

What is a serious side effect of lithium?

lithium: toxicity is a medical emergency; discontinue lithium without delay (National Institute for Health Care Excellence 2020c).

Serious allergic reactionIn rare cases, lithium may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).

What are some long term side effects of taking lithium?

Taking lithium for a long time can also cause problems with your kidneys or thyroid gland.


Common signs of an underactive thyroid are tiredness, weight gain and feeling depressed. Signs of kidney problems include swollen hands or ankles, feeling tired and short of breath, changes in your pee and feeling sick.
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What are some serious side effects of taking lithium?

In rare cases, lithium may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) and lithium toxicity

Describe the symptoms of lithium toxicity?

Lithium toxicity is mainly neurological, worsens as levels rise, and needs urgent action even if mild.

A. Gut (early warning)
Think: “can’t tolerate it”
  • Diarrhoea
  • Vomiting
  • Anorexia
  B. Neuro (core features — MOST important)Think: “brain & balance”
  • Lethargy
  • Dizziness
  • Ataxia
  • Poor coordination
  • Tremor
  • Dysarthria
  • Drowsiness
  • Blurred vision
  • Tinnitus

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