WARNING

Eskalith, also known as lithium carbonate, is commonly prescribed to treat bipolar disorder. While it can be effective in managing mood swings, there are several risks associated with its use:

• Kidney Problems: Long-term use of Eskalith can potentially lead to kidney damage or dysfunction. It’s essential to monitor kidney function regularly while taking this medication.
• Thyroid Issues: Eskalith may interfere with thyroid function, leading to hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
• Dehydration: Lithium can cause excessive thirst and urination, leading to dehydration. It’s important to stay adequately hydrated while taking this medication.
• Toxicity: There’s a narrow therapeutic window for lithium, meaning the difference between a therapeutic dose and a toxic dose is relatively small. Toxicity can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, confusion, and even seizures.
• Interactions: Eskalith can interact with other medications and substances, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), diuretics, and certain antidepressants, potentially increasing the risk of toxicity or reducing its effectiveness.
• Pregnancy Risks: Lithium use during pregnancy can pose risks to the developing fetus, including congenital malformations and neonatal complications. However, the decision to continue or discontinue lithium during pregnancy should be made carefully under the guidance of a healthcare provider, weighing the potential risks to both the mother and the baby.
• Thyroid Nodules: Long-term use of lithium may increase the risk of developing thyroid nodules, which could potentially lead to thyroid cancer, although the risk is relatively low.

It’s crucial for individuals prescribed Eskalith to work closely with their healthcare providers, undergo regular monitoring, and report any concerning symptoms promptly to mitigate these risks. Additionally, following the prescribed dosage and avoiding interactions with other substances can help minimize the likelihood of adverse effects.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Eskalith, which contains lithium carbonate, is primarily prescribed to treat bipolar disorder, a mental health condition characterized by episodes of mania (elevated mood, excessive energy) and depression (low mood, loss of interest or pleasure). Lithium carbonate is a mood stabilizer that helps to reduce the frequency and severity of manic episodes, stabilize mood, and prevent the recurrence of both manic and depressive episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Eskalith is typically used:

• Dosage: The dosage of Eskalith varies depending on factors such as the individual’s age, weight, kidney function, and the severity of their condition. It’s crucial to follow the dosage instructions provided by the prescribing healthcare provider carefully.
• Administration: Eskalith is usually taken orally in the form of tablets or capsules. It’s typically taken two to three times per day with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
• Monitoring: Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor lithium levels in the blood. This helps ensure that the medication is at a therapeutic level and not reaching toxic levels.
• Consistency: It’s important to take Eskalith consistently and at the same times each day to maintain stable blood levels of the medication.
• Duration: Treatment with Eskalith is usually long-term, as bipolar disorder is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Even if symptoms improve, it’s essential to continue taking Eskalith as prescribed to prevent relapse.
• Precautions: Avoid sudden changes in salt intake or dehydration, as they can affect lithium levels in the body. Also, be cautious when taking other medications or supplements, as they may interact with Eskalith.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: It’s crucial to discuss the risks and benefits of taking Eskalith during pregnancy or while breastfeeding with a healthcare provider. While lithium can pose risks to the fetus, discontinuing the medication abruptly can also be harmful, so the decision should be made carefully under medical supervision.

Overall, Eskalith is an effective medication for managing bipolar disorder, but it requires careful monitoring and adherence to ensure its safety and efficacy. It’s essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage and to address any concerns or side effects that may arise during treatment.

Other uses for this medicine

• In addition to bipolar disorder, Eskalith may be used in the treatment of certain types of depression, particularly those that are treatment-resistant.
• Some evidence suggests that lithium may have neuroprotective effects, leading to research into its potential use in conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or certain neurological disorders.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding precautions for taking Eskalith (lithium carbonate), it’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. Here are some general precautions:

• Regular Monitoring: Lithium levels in the blood need to be monitored regularly to ensure they remain within a safe and effective range. This monitoring helps prevent toxicity and ensures the medication is working optimally.
• Stay Hydrated: Lithium can affect kidney function, so it’s important to maintain adequate hydration while taking the medication. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, can help mitigate this risk.
• Consistent Sodium Intake: Changes in sodium levels can affect lithium levels in the body. Therefore, it’s important to maintain a consistent level of sodium intake through diet and avoid excessive salt intake or sudden changes in dietary sodium.
• Be Aware of Side Effects: Common side effects of lithium include hand tremors, increased thirst, increased urination, weight gain, and gastrointestinal issues. Report any concerning side effects to your healthcare provider.
• Avoid Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Lithium can be harmful to a developing fetus, so it’s generally not recommended during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. It’s also passed into breast milk, so it’s usually not advised during breastfeeding.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Lithium can interact with other medications, including diuretics, ACE inhibitors, NSAIDs, and some antidepressants. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of Eskalith or any other medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special Dietary Instructions:

• Maintain a Consistent Diet: Try to maintain a consistent diet with a regular intake of sodium. Sudden changes in sodium intake can affect lithium levels in the body.
• Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol can affect your mood and may interact with lithium. Limit your intake or avoid them altogether, depending on your individual tolerance and response.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support overall health and well-being, which may complement your treatment with Eskalith.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Eskalith, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double your dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Eskalith, which contains lithium carbonate, can cause a range of side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Some common side effects of Eskalith/lithium carbonate include:

• Hand Tremors: Shaking or tremors, especially in the hands, is a common side effect of lithium.
• Increased Thirst: Lithium can cause dehydration and increase thirst.
• Increased Urination: You may notice that you need to urinate more frequently while taking lithium.
• Weight Gain: Some people may experience weight gain while taking lithium.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort can occur, especially when starting treatment.
• Fatigue: Lithium can cause drowsiness or fatigue in some individuals.
• Muscle Weakness: Lithium may cause weakness or fatigue in the muscles.
• Memory Problems: Some people may experience cognitive side effects, such as memory problems or difficulty concentrating.
• Thyroid Function Changes: Lithium can affect thyroid function, leading to hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) in some individuals.
• Skin Changes: Lithium may cause acne, rash, or other skin changes.
• Tremor: In addition to hand tremors, lithium can cause tremors in other parts of the body.
• Hair Changes: Lithium may lead to changes in hair texture or hair loss in some individuals.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Lithium can affect electrolyte balance, leading to sodium or potassium imbalances in the body.
• Long-Term Kidney Effects: Prolonged use of lithium may affect kidney function in some individuals, leading to conditions like nephrogenic diabetes insipidus or chronic kidney disease.
• Cardiovascular Effects: Rarely, lithium may cause cardiovascular side effects such as arrhythmias or changes in blood pressure.

It’s important to discuss any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and may adjust your medication dosage or recommend alternative treatments if necessary. Additionally, if you experience severe side effects or signs of lithium toxicity (such as confusion, seizures, or irregular heartbeat), seek medical attention immediately.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store Eskalith at room temperature away from light and moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or in places where it may be exposed to extreme heat or cold.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets: Store Eskalith in a secure location out of reach of children and pets, as accidental ingestion can be harmful.
• Disposal: Dispose of any unused or expired Eskalith properly according to local guidelines or through a medication take-back program. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Help: If you suspect an overdose of Eskalith, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center at once. Overdose symptoms may include severe drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, tremors, seizures, slurred speech, blurred vision, or fainting.
• Do Not Wait: Do not wait for symptoms to appear before seeking help, especially if you believe someone has ingested an excessive amount of lithium.
• Provide Information: When seeking emergency assistance, provide as much information as possible about the medication ingested, the dosage, and the time of ingestion.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will likely monitor your lithium levels regularly through blood tests to ensure they remain within the therapeutic range and to prevent toxicity.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Lithium use during pregnancy can be harmful to the fetus, so the risks and benefits should be carefully considered.
• Medical Alert: If you are taking Eskalith, it’s advisable to wear a medical alert bracelet or carry a medical alert card indicating that you are taking lithium in case of emergency situations.
• Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: Limit or avoid alcohol and caffeine consumption while taking Eskalith, as they can interact with the medication and exacerbate side effects.
• Stay Hydrated: Ensure you stay adequately hydrated while taking Eskalith to help prevent dehydration and kidney problems associated with lithium use.
• Follow Instructions: Take Eskalith exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not alter your dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor first.
• Regular Follow-Ups: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and discuss any concerns or side effects you may be experiencing.

Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about the storage, disposal, emergency procedures, or other aspects of taking Eskalith. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual circumstances.