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Lithium is a medication with important safety considerations that both patients and healthcare providers must be aware of. Below is a summary of potential risks and necessary precautions when using lithium:

• Lithium Toxicity: It's crucial to maintain lithium levels within a safe range to prevent toxicity. High lithium levels can lead to severe side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, seizures, and confusion. Regular blood tests are essential to monitor lithium levels. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of excessive lithium in your body.

• Kidney Health: Lithium may harm the kidneys and affect their ability to balance salt and water. Be vigilant for signs such as bloody urine or lower back pain and report them to your healthcare provider. Maintaining consistent fluid and salt intake is important, and dehydration should be avoided.

• Serotonin Syndrome: When used with certain medications, lithium can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Symptoms include rapid heart rate, fever, and muscle stiffness. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to avoid interactions.

• Thyroid Function: Lithium can impact thyroid health, potentially leading to hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Regular thyroid monitoring is recommended. Report symptoms like unexplained weight changes or temperature sensitivity to your healthcare provider.

• Heart Issues (Brugada Syndrome): Lithium may exacerbate the symptoms of Brugada syndrome, a serious heart rhythm disorder. Those with a family history of Brugada syndrome or sudden unexplained deaths should seek cardiology advice before starting lithium.

• Low Blood Sodium Levels: Lithium can reduce sodium levels, leading to weakness, confusion, and headaches. This is particularly concerning for older adults or those on diuretics. Medical intervention is necessary if these symptoms arise.

• High Blood Calcium and Parathyroid Hormone Levels: Long-term lithium use can increase calcium levels in the blood, which may require surgical intervention. Watch for symptoms like muscle weakness and nausea.

• Brain-Related Side Effects: Combining lithium with antipsychotics may increase the risk of neurological side effects. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience tremors, confusion, or muscle stiffness.

Lithium should not be used if you have a known allergy to lithium-containing products. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting or stopping lithium treatment, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications. Promptly report any concerning symptoms or side effects to ensure safe and effective use of this medication.

Common side effects:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Tiredness
• Increased thirst
• Increased frequency of urination
• Weight gain
• Mild hand tremors

Less common but important to monitor:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Unsteady walk
• Confusion
• Trouble speaking
• Blurred vision
• Severe hand tremors
• Vision changes
• Joint swelling
• Joint pain
• Unusual pain or discoloration in fingers or toes

Serious side effects:

• Severe dizziness
• Fainting
• Irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Seizures
• Serotonin syndrome
• Fast heartbeat
• Hallucinations
• Severe nausea
• Allergic reaction
• Rash
• Itching
• Swelling
• Difficulty breathing

Interactions with high risk of serious adverse effects and should be avoided:

• MDMA
• St. John's wort
• Fluoxetine
• Paroxetine
• Duloxetine
• Venlafaxine

Interactions with moderate risk that may require dose adjustment, closer monitoring, or timing changes:

• Captopril
• Enalapril
• Losartan
• Valsartan
• Celecoxib
• Ibuprofen
• Hydrochlorothiazide
• Furosemide
• Chlorpromazine
• Haloperidol