Posted by Toph on October 8, 2015, at 9:05:25
In reply to Lithium levels: Really need advice please...., posted by PeterMartin on October 7, 2015, at 19:20:06
Hi Peter. I assume it is believed that you are BP1. I am, and have been taking Lithium for over 30 years. For me it has prevented both psychotic manic episodes and chronic depression effectively except for one manic episode I experienced when my mother died several years ago. I had allowed my LI level to go low at that time. Otherwise, I have kept my serum LI at about 0.7 with 750mg/day (below the suggested therapeutic range 0.8 - 1.2). Before LI, in my 20s, I would have to be hospitalized about every year with a manic or depressed episode. My only annoying side effects have been slight dry mouth and occasional diarrhea. At age 60, I developed a slight hand tremor that probably is medication related though unnoticeable except by me. I have always had normal thyroid and renal panels. This medication is not for everyone although it is the most common and arguably the most effective drug for treatment of BP1 disorder. I hope that you find an effective medication that will significantly reduce the risk of another manic episode.
poster:Toph
thread:1083314
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20150929/msgs/1083319.html