Medication Review: Lithium

[EJ]

I just want to add a note about dehydration. Is is very important to drink plenty of fluids whilst taking lithium or the levels in the blood could become toxic. It is also recommended to seek medical advice if you have a stomach upset or vomiting. I have suffered recently for not taking enough fluid and having a sick headache. This is usually remedied with rest and drinking water. Toxicity can occur in warm weather and usually other symptoms are present such as nausea and vomiting and fainting and shaking. Toxicity needs to be dealt with in hospital usually with IV fluids. Dieting can also affect lithium levels.