Lithium Carbonate: Lithium works by affecting the flow of sodium through nerve and muscle cells in the body, which influences mood regulation and behavior. It stabilizes mood by enhancing serotonin levels, reducing the symptoms of mania (such as hyperactivity, rapid speech, and impulsive behavior), and preventing depression and mood swings in bipolar disorder.

• Dosage: Follow the dosage prescribed by your healthcare provider, which typically ranges from one to three tablets per day.
• The dosage depends on your lithium blood levels, which will be regularly monitored.
• Administration: Take the tablet orally with water. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush or chew, as it is a sustained-release formulation meant to release lithium slowly over time. Take the tablet at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels of lithium.

• Lithium has a narrow therapeutic window, meaning the difference between an effective dose and a toxic dose is small. Regular monitoring of blood lithium levels is essential to avoid toxicity.
• Maintain adequate hydration (drink plenty of water) to avoid dehydration, which can increase lithium levels and lead to toxicity.
• Avoid low-sodium diets or excessive salt intake, as it can affect lithium levels. Maintain a stable sodium intake.

• Stabilizes mood and helps prevent manic and depressive episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder.
• Reduces the severity and frequency of manic episodes, improving daily functioning and quality of life.
• Long-term use can help prevent relapses of mood swings.

• Tremor
• Slurred speech
• Uncoordinated body movements
• Nausea
• Acne
• Increased white blood cell count
• Memory impairment
• Hair loss
• Goiter (enlarged thyroid gland)
• Skin rash
• Increased thirst
• Weight gain
• Polyuria
• Diarrhea