What Are Side Effects of Lithium Withdrawal?
Lithium is a prescription medication used in the treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions. Lithium can be prescribed for the treatment of manic depressive disorder, hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder and other conditions that may cause a patient to experience mania. Although the patient should not experience withdrawal or long-term effects as a result of discontinuing lithium treatment, patients can experience additional symptoms of mania. Other side effects may occur, as well. Side Effects Lithium is associated with mild to moderate side effects such as a mild tremors in the hands, weakness or lack of coordination, appetite loss, upset stomach, constipation or nausea and vomiting. Lithium may also cause your hair to thin or dry out, and your skin may be itchy as a result of taking the drug. These side effects may persist for some time after lithium is discontinued, as it can take several weeks for it to exit the system completely. Severe Reactions Some side effects while
