Are you afraid of Lithium weight gain? About one in every four people experience rapid weight gain from taking the mood stabilizer lithium, as reported by Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica. Based on the research conducted on this issue, the average weight gain that people who take lithium experience is usually between ten and twenty six pounds. Some studies show that people taking lithium are likely to gain approximately 8% of their total body weight. Lithium and appetite can play a significant role in this.
For those who experience weight gain through lithium, it is recommend that they limit the consumption of high calorie food and drinks. Lithium is notorious for making people thirsty. It is therefore recommended that people on lithium drink a good deal of water or other low-calorie liquids to help satiate their thirst and avoid excess weight gain. High calorie drinks should be avoided.
There are a number of theories as to why lithium side effects cause some people to gain weight. Causes include increased appetite and thirst, sodium retention and changes in metabolism. Swelling and bloating can also occur when more salt and water is retained. Lithium is also known to cause fatigue in some, which can lead to less physical exercise and a more sedentary lifestyle.
Patients should always consult with their physicians about how they’re tolerating their medications. Physicians can help patients develop a strategy to deal with any weight gain associated with lithium or they might be able to identify an alternative medication altogether.
For example, Lamictal has been shown to be less likely to cause weight gain than other mood stabilizers in clinical trials. Indeed, under five percent of patients on Lamictal gained weight.
But Lamictal is also not indicated for treating acute manic episodes: it’s more of a maintenance drug where as lithium is something that can be used for both manic and depressive episodes as well as both acute and maintenance treatment.
Used by many as a nutritional supplement, Lithium orotate is often taken in micro doses much like selenium or zinc. People use lithium supplements for alcohol use disorder, Alzheimer disease and certain other conditions, but to date there is not strong scientific evidence to support its efficacy. Lithium orotate is not the same substance as the medication lithium used to treat bipolar disorder.
FAQs:
How do you deal with bipolar weight gain?
In some cases, weight gain can be a common side effect associated with specific medications that treat bipolar disorder. To help mitigate this, it is important to maintain a balanced diet with nutritious foods and engage in regular physical activity weekly. If the issue persists, you should always discuss different medication options and potential side effects with your psychiatric provider for personalized management.
What do I need to know before taking lithium?
Before taking lithium it is important to be aware of the common side effects such as increased thirst and tremors, potential serious side effects such as thyroid or kidney issues, and the requirement of routine blood tests to monitor your lithium levels. One should also inform their doctor of all of the medications they are actively taking as well as existing health conditions prior to introducing lithium to their treatment regimen.
What are the negative symptoms of lithium?
Possible negative symptoms from taking lithium can include increased thirst, frequent urination, weight gain and tremors. In some cases, kidney and thyroid problems can be associated with taking lithium. One should always discuss these potential side effects and their concerns with their healthcare provider if they are interested in starting, or are actively taking lithium.
What does lithium do to your body over time?
Stabilizes Mood: It is effective in reducing the frequency and severity of mood swings in bipolar disorder.
Impact on Organs: Long-term use may affect the kidneys, requiring regular monitoring of kidney function.
Thyroid Function: It can interfere with thyroid hormone production, potentially leading to hypothyroidism.
