Precautions
Is Lithobid a lithium ER?
What is lithium ER? Lithium ER (generic Lithobid) is the extended-release version of lithium carbonate - a prescription drug used to treat mania and mixed episodes related to bipolar disorder.
Is lithium carbonate extended-release?
Lithium Carbonate Extended-Release Tablets USP, 450 mg are designed to release a portion of the dose initially and the remainder gradually; the release pattern of the controlled release tablets reduces the variability in lithium blood levels seen with the immediate release dosage forms.
What is the difference between lithium and Lithobid?
Lithium, or lithium carbonate, is the generic name of the drug. It is also sold by the brand names Lithobid or Eskalith.
What is the classification of Lithobid?
Lithobid belongs to a class of drugs called Bipolar Disorder Agents.
Can lithobid be cut in half?
Do not crush or chew this medication. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split the tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so.
Is Lithium Carbonate 300 mg extended-release?
Lithium Carbonate Extended-release Tablets USP are available for oral administration containing 300 mg of lithium carbonate USP. This slowly dissolving, film-coated tablet is designed to give lower serum lithium peak concentrations than obtained with conventional oral lithium dosage forms.
What is extended release lithium?
Lithium Carbonate Extended Release Tablets USP are indicated in the treatment of manic episodes of manic-depressive illness. Maintenance therapy prevents or diminishes the intensity of subsequent episodes in those manic-depressive patients with a history of mania.
Does lithium work better than Lamictal?
Lamotrigine have better effectiveness in treatment of bipolar depression. Lithium is a first-line option in acute and maintenance treatments of bipolar disorder and the only one drug that can prevent suicide, because there is high suicidal risk among individuals affected by BD.
Why is lithium taken at night?
Take your lithium each night at the same time. You need to take it at night because blood tests need to be done during the day, 12 hours after a dose (see Section 4 'Blood tests after starting to take lithium').
How long does lithobid take to work?
It may take 1 to 3 weeks to notice improvement in your condition.
Can you overdose on lithobid?
Too much Lithobid in your body can cause death. This medicine toxicity can occur if you take only slightly more than a recommended dose.
Can lithium ER be taken once a day?
Therapeutic ranges for lithium were established in the 1970s using multiple daily dose regimens, and therefore should not be directly applied to patients taking lithium once daily. The current standard of practice is to measure levels 12 hours post dose irrespective of once or twice daily administration.
What is extended-release lithium?
Lithium Carbonate Extended Release Tablets USP are indicated in the treatment of manic episodes of manic-depressive illness. Maintenance therapy prevents or diminishes the intensity of subsequent episodes in those manic-depressive patients with a history of mania.
What is the difference between lithium and lithium carbonate?
What is the Difference Between Lithium Orotate and Lithium Carbonate? Lithium orotate is a salt compound having the chemical formula C5H3LiN2O4 while lithium carbonate is an inorganic compound having the chemical formula Li2CO3. Lithium orotate and lithium carbonate have applications as medications.
Is lithium slow release?
Lithium carbonate comes as regular tablets and slow-release tablets – where the medicine is released slowly over time. Lithium citrate comes as a liquid. This is usually only prescribed for people who have trouble swallowing tablets .
How long does lithium extended-release last?
After a single dose, lithium, usually given as carbonate, reaches a peak plasma concentration at 1.0-2.0 hours for standard-release dosage forms, and 4-5 hours for sustained-release forms. Its bioavailability is 80-100%, its total clearance 10-40 mL/min and its elimination half-life is 18-36 hours.
What are the side effects of lithium?
If persistent, a cessation of lithium therapy may be required. Diarrhea, vomiting, drowsiness, muscular weakness, and lack of coordination may be early signs of lithium intoxication, and can occur at lithium concentrations below 2.0 mEq/L. At higher concentrations, giddiness, ataxia, blurred vision, tinnitus, and a large output of dilute urine may be seen. Serum lithium concentrations above 3.0 mEq/L may produce a complex clinical picture involving multiple organs and organ systems. Serum lithium concentrations should not be permitted to exceed 2.0 mEq/L during the acute treatment phase.
What drugs lower lithium levels?
The following drugs can lower serum lithium concentrations by increasing urinary lithium excretion: acetazolamide, urea, xanthine preparations, and alkalinizing agents such as sodium bicarbonate.
How often should you monitor lithium levels?
Serum lithium concentrations in uncomplicated cases receiving maintenance therapy during remission should be monitored at least every two months. Patients abnormally sensitive to lithium may exhibit toxic signs at serum concentrations of 1.0 to 1.5 mEq/L. Geriatric patients often respond to reduced dosage, and may exhibit signs of toxicity at serum concentrations ordinarily tolerated by other patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.
What is the formula for lithium carbonate?
Lithobid ® tablets contain lithium carbonate, a white odorless alkaline powder with molecular formula Li 2 CO 3 and molecular weight 73.89. Lithium is an element of the alkali-metal group with atomic number 3, atomic weight 6.94, and an emission line at 671 nm on the flame photometer.
How long does it take for lithium to reach the brain?
Lithium may take up to 24 hours to distribute into brain tissue, so occurrence of acute toxicity symptoms may be delayed.
How long does it take to get rid of lithium poisoning?
Early symptoms of lithium toxicity can usually be treated by reduction or cessation of dosage of the drug and resumption of the treatment at a lower dose after 24 to 48 hours.
When should blood samples be drawn for lithium?
Blood samples for serum lithium determinations should be drawn immediately prior to the next dose when lithium concentrations are relatively stable (i.e., 8 to 12 hours after previous dose). Total reliance must not be placed on serum concentrations alone. Accurate patient evaluation requires both clinical and laboratory analysis.
When should blood samples be drawn for lithium?
Blood samples for serum lithium determinations should be drawn immediately prior to the next dose when lithium concentrations are relatively stable (i.e., 8-12 hours after previous dose). Total reliance must not be placed on serum concentrations alone. Accurate patient evaluation requires both clinical and laboratory analysis.
What is lithium carbonate?
LITHOBID® (lithium carbonate) is indicated in the treatment of manic episodes of Bipolar Disorder. Bipolar Disorder, Manic (DSM-IV) is equivalent to Manic Depressive illness, Manic, in the older DSM-II terminology. LITHOBID® is also indicated as a maintenance treatment for individuals with a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder. Maintenance therapy reduces the frequency of manic episodes and diminishes the intensity of those episodes which may occur.
Can you take Lithium in nursing?
Lithium is excreted in human milk. Nursing should not be undertaken during lithium therapy except in rare and unusual circumstances where, in the view of the physician, the potential benefits to the mother outweigh possible hazard to the infant or neonate. Signs and symptoms of lithium toxicity such as hypertonia, hypothermia, cyanosis, and ECG changes have been reported in some infants and neonates.
Is lithium toxicity reversible?
Such patients should be carefully managed to avoid dehydration with resulting lithium retention and toxicity. This condition is usually reversible when lithium is discontinued.
Can lithium cause Brugada syndrome?
Brugada Syndrome is a disorder characterized by abnormal electrocardiographic (ECG) findings and a risk of sudden death. Lithium should generally be avoided in patients with Brugada Syndrome or those suspected of having Brugada Syndrome. Consultation with a cardiologist is recommended if: (1) treatment with lithium is under consideration for patients suspected of having Brugada Syndrome or patients who have risk factors for Brugada Syndrome, e.g., unexplained syncope, a family history of Brugada Syndrome, or a family history of sudden unexplained death before the age of 45 years, (2) patients who develop unexplained syncope or palpitations after starting lithium therapy.
Does lithium affect mania?
Preclinical studies have shown that lithium alters sodium transport in nerve and muscle cells and effects a shift toward intraneuronal metabolism of catecholamines, but the specific biochemical mechanism of lithium action in mania is unknown.
Does lithium cause adverse reactions?
The occurrence and severity of adverse reactions are generally directly related to serum lithium concentrations and to individual patient sensitivity to lithium. They generally occur more frequently and with greater severity at higher concentrations.
How long does it take for lithium to normalize?
When given to a patient experiencing a manic episode, lithium may produce a normalization of symptomatology within 1 to 3 weeks. Lithium Toxicity - The toxic concentrations for lithium (≥1.5 mEq/L) are close to the therapeutic range (0.8 to 1.2 mEq/L).
How long does lithium stay in the body?
Renal excretion of lithium is proportional to its plasma concentration. The elimination half-life of lithium is approximately 24 hours. Lithium decreases sodium reabsorption by the renal tubules which could lead to sodium depletion.
What is the atomic number of lithium?
Lithium is an element of the alkali-metal group with atomic number 3, atomic weight 6.94, and an emission line at 671 nm on the flame photometer. Each peach-colored, film-coated, extended-release tablet contains 300 mg of lithium carbonate. This slowly dissolving film-coated tablet is designed to give lower serum lithium peak concentrations ...
How long does it take for lithium to reach the brain?
Lithium may take up to 24 hours to distribute into brain tissue, so occurrence of acute toxicity symptoms may be delayed.
What is the formula for lithium carbonate?
LITHOBID® tablets contain lithium carbonate, a white odorless alkaline powder with molecular formula Li2CO3 and molecular weight 73.89. Lithium is an element of the alkali-metal group with atomic ...
What are the symptoms of lithium intoxication?
Diarrhea, vomiting, drowsiness, muscular weakness, and lack of coordination may be early signs of lithium intoxication, and can occur at lithium concentrations below 2.0 mEq/L. At higher concentrations, giddiness, ataxia, blurred vision, tinnitus, and a large output of dilute urine may be seen.
Does lithium affect sodium transport?
Preclinical studies have shown that lithium alters sodium transport in nerve and muscle cells and effects a shift toward intraneuronal metabolism of catecholamines, but the specific biochemical ...
What is Lithobid?
Lithobid is a mood stabilizer that is used to treat or control the manic episodes of bipolar disorder (manic depression ). Manic symptoms include hyperactivity, rushed speech, poor judgment, reduced need for sleep, aggression, and anger. This medicine also helps to prevent or lessen the intensity of manic episodes.
What are the side effects of Lithobid?
a family member who died before age 45. Some medicines can interact with Lithobid and cause a serious condition called serotonin syndrome.
How should I take Lithobid?
Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Never use Lithobid in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. This medicine overdose can occur if you take only slightly more than a recommended dose.
What should I avoid while taking lithium?
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how Lithobid will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.
Can Lithobid cause death?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Too much Lithobid in your body can cause death. This medicine toxicity can occur if you take only slightly more than a recommended dose.
Can you crush a tablet?
Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it.
Can Lithobid harm a baby?
Ask your doctor before making any changes in how or when you take your medications. It is not known whether Lithobid will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.
What is lithium carbonate?
Bipolar Disorder, Manic (DSM-IV) is equivalent to Manic Depressive illness, Manic, in the older DSM-II terminology. LITHOBID® is also indicated as a maintenance treatment for individuals with a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder. Maintenance therapy reduces the frequency of manic episodes and diminishes the intensity of those episodes which may occur.
Does lithium affect nidation?
Adverse effects on nidationin rats, embryo viability in mice, and metabolism in vitro of rat testis and human spermatozoa have been attributed to lithium, as have teratogenicity in submammalian species and cleft palate in mice.
Can lithium cause Brugada syndrome?
Brugada Syndrome is a disorder characterized by abnormal electrocardiographic (ECG) findings and a risk of sudden death. Lithium should generally be avoided in patients with Brugada Syndrome or those suspected of having Brugada Syndrome. Consultation with a cardiologist is recommended if: (1) treatment with lithium is under consideration for patients suspected of having Brugada Syndrome or patients who have risk factors for Brugada Syndrome, e.g., unexplained syncope, a family history of Brugada Syndrome, or a family history of sudden unexplained death before the age of 45 years, (2) patients who develop unexplained syncope or palpitations after starting lithium therapy.
Does lithium cause adverse reactions?
The occurrence and severity of adverse reactions are generally directly related to serum lithium concentrations and to individual patient sensitivity to lithium. They generally occur more frequently and with greater severity at higher concentrations.
Can you take Lithium in nursing?
Lithium is excreted in human milk. Nursing should not be undertaken during lithium therapy except in rare and unusual circumstances where, in the view of the physician, the potential benefits to the mother outweigh possible hazard to the infant or neonate. Signs and symptoms of lithium toxicity such as hypertonia, hypothermia, cyanosis, and ECG changes have been reported in some infants and neonates.
Is lithium toxicity reversible?
Such patients should be carefully managed to avoid dehydration with resulting lithium retention and toxicity. This condition is usually reversible when lithium is discontinued.
Is lithium a toxic substance?
The toxic concentrations for lithium (1.5 mEq/ L ) are close to the therapeutic concentrations (0.6-1.2 mEq/L). It is therefore important that patients and their families be cautioned to watch for early toxic symptoms and to discontinue the drug and inform the physician should they occur. (Toxic symptoms are listed in detail under ADVERSE REACTIONS .)
What is the formula for lithium carbonate?
LITHOBID® tablets contain lithium carbonate, a white odorless alkaline powder with molecular formula Li2CO3 and molecular weight 73.89. Lithium is an element of the alkali-metal group with atomic number 3, atomic weight 6.94, and an emission line at 671 nm on the flame photometer.
Does lithium affect mania?
Preclinical studies have shown that lithium alters sodium transport in nerve and muscle cells and effects a shift toward intraneuronal metabolism of catecholamines, but the specific biochemical mechanism of lithium action in mania is unknown.
Can you take Lithium in nursing?
Lithium is excreted in human milk. Nursing should not be undertaken during lithium therapy except in rare and unusual circumstances where, in the view of the physician, the potential benefits to the mother outweigh possible hazard to the infant or neonate. Signs and symptoms of lithium toxicity such as hypertonia, hypothermia, cyanosis, and ECG changes have been reported in some infants and neonates.
Is lithium toxicity reversible?
This condition is usually reversible when lithium is discontinued.
Can lithium be used for Brugada?
Brugada Syndrome is a disorder characterized by abnormal electrocardiographic (ECG) findings and a risk of sudden death. Lithium should generally be avoided in patients with Brugada Syndrome or those suspected of having Brugada Syndrome. Consultation with a cardiologist is recommended if: (1) treatment with lithium is under consideration for patients suspected of having Brugada Syndrome or patients who have risk factors for Brugada Syndrome, e.g., unexplained syncope, a family history of Brugada Syndrome, or a family history of sudden unexplained death before the age of 45 years, (2) patients who develop unexplained syncope or palpitations after starting lithium therapy.
Does lithium cause adverse reactions?
The occurrence and severity of adverse reactions are generally directly related to serum lithium concentrations and to individual patient sensitivity to lithium. They generally occur more frequently and with greater severity at higher concentrations.
Lithobid Description
This medication is used to treat manic-depressive disorder (bipolar disorder).
May Treat: Bipolar disorder in remission · Mania associated with bipolar disorder · Mixed bipolar I disorder
Alternate Brand Names: Eskalith CR
Drug Class: Bipolar Therapy Agents - Lithium
Availability: Prescription Required
Pregnancy: Consult your doctor. This medication may be harmful to an unborn child.
May Treat: Bipolar disorder in remission · Mania associated with bipolar disorder · Mixed bipolar I disorder
Alternate Brand Names: Eskalith CR
Drug Class: Bipolar Therapy Agents - Lithium
Availability: Prescription Required
Pregnancy: Consult your doctor. This medication may be harmful to an unborn child.
Lactation: This drug should not be given to breastfeeding mothers
Alcohol: Limit intake while taking this medication
Driving: May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution
Manufacturer: NOVEN THERAPEUT
- Call doctor immediately for side effects.
- Do not take while breast feeding or when pregnant
- Drink at least 10 glasses of water daily
- Call doctor immediately for side effects.
- Do not take while breast feeding or when pregnant
- Drink at least 10 glasses of water daily
- May make you drowsy or dizzy. Drive with caution
- Review all drugs you are taking with your doctor
- Do not follow a sodium restricted diet
- For capsule products : Before use, important to read the Medication Guide. Lab tests may be ordered to monitor therapy.
- For tablet, extended release products : Do not chew or crush. OK to split tablet if scored. Tell Dr/dentist on drug prior to any surgery.
Actions
Indications
Warnings
Precautions
Adverse Reactions
- Preclinical studies have shown that lithium alters sodium transport in nerve and muscle cells and effects a shift toward intraneuronal metabolism of catecholamines, but the specific biochemical mechanism of lithium action in mania is unknown.
Dosage and Administration
- Lithobid® (lithium carbonate) is indicated in the treatment of manic episodes of Bipolar Disorder. Bipolar Disorder, Manic (DSM-IV) is equivalent to Manic Depressive illness, Manic, in the older DSM-II terminology. Lithobid®is also indicated as a maintenance treatment for individuals with a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder. Maintenance therapy reduces the frequency of manic episodes an…
Overdosage
- Lithium Toxicity The toxic concentrations for lithium (≥1.5 mEq/L) are close to the therapeutic range (0.8 to 1.2 mEq/L). Some patients abnormally sensitive to lithium may exhibit toxic signs at serum concentrations that are considered within the therapeutic range (see BOXED WARNING and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION). Lithium may take up to 24 hours to distribute into brain tissue…
Patient Counseling Information
- The ability to tolerate lithium is greater during the acute manic phase and decreases when manic symptoms subside (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION). The distribution space of lithium approximates that of total body water. Lithium is primarily excreted in urine with insignificant excretion in feces. Renal excretion of lithium is proportional to its plasma concentration. The eli…
How Is Lithobid Supplied
- The occurrence and severity of adverse reactions are generally directly related to serum lithium concentrations and to individual patient sensitivity to lithium. They generally occur more frequently and with greater severity at higher concentrations. Adverse reactions may be encountered at serum lithium concentrations below 1.5 mEq/L. Mild to moderate adverse reacti…