Lithium is a successful medicine that has been utilized for quite a long time to treat bipolar turmoil and clinical depression. However, long-term use of lithium does come with potential side effects worth understanding before starting treatment.

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How Lithium Works

First approved by the FDA in the 1970s, lithium helps balance mood by changing how the brain responds to neurotransmitters tied to bipolar manic and depressive states. It acts on the central nervous system to quiet feelings and decrease the seriousness of mood swings.

For many patients, lithium greatly improves quality of life and prevents severe manic or depressive episodes. It’s often a first-line treatment for stabilizing mood.

Side Effects

A many people can securely take lithium present moment, however use for over a year carry risks, as:

  • Hand tremors
  • Increase in how often you need to urinate.
  • Weight gain
  • Loss of motivation
  • Memory problems
  • Low thyroid functions

The amount of lithium in your blood needs careful monitoring, since too much lithium can cause severe side effects. Blood tests every few months help catch problems early. Staying well hydrated also keeps lithium at safe levels.

Long-Term Impact on Health

Several health consequences are associated with long-term lithium use:

Kidney Damage

Kidneys flush lithium from your system. Long-term, high lithium levels can hamper kidney function. Kidney failure is possible in rare cases. Monitoring kidney function via blood tests helps greatly.

Thyroid Slowdown

Too much lithium causes the thyroid to produce less thyroid hormone, leading to hypothyroidism with symptoms like fatigue, weight gain and sensitivity to cold. This can be managed by adding a thyroid supplement.

Cognitive Impairment

There is conflicting evidence over lithium increasing the risk for dementia, likely depending on dosage and length of usage. Some analyses have found long-term lithium users have better cognitive abilities. More research is still needed.

Balance Risks and Benefits

For patients with severe bipolar or depression, lithium’s ability to prevent damaging manic/depressive episodes often outweighs risks from long-term use. Patients must decide for themselves if the benefits make up for potential consequences.

Having honest conversations with your doctor about side effects is key — with regular monitoring and precautionary steps, risks can be minimized. Being informed helps patients and doctors make the best choices about using lithium safely and effectively long-term.