Lithium (medication)

Lithium (pronounced /ˈlɪθiəm/) is a chemical element with the symbol Li and atomic number 3. It is a soft, silvery-white alkali metal. In the context of medication, lithium is commonly used in the treatment of bipolar disorder, a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).

Etymology

The term "lithium" comes from the Greek word "lithos," meaning "stone," due to its discovery in mineral form. The medicinal use of lithium is believed to have been first recorded in the late 19th century.

Usage

Lithium is used primarily to treat and prevent episodes of mania in people with bipolar disorder. Mania is described as an elevated mood, characterized by extreme optimism, excessive energy, and poor judgment. Lithium works by decreasing abnormal activity in the brain, which helps to reduce the severity and frequency of manic episodes.

Related Terms

Bipolar disorder: A disorder associated with episodes of mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs.
Mania: A mental health condition characterized by periods of great excitement, euphoria, delusions, and overactivity.
Depression: A mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life.
Alkali metal: Lithium is part of the alkali metal group, which also includes sodium, potassium, rubidium, cesium, and francium.

Side Effects

Like all medications, lithium can cause side effects. Common side effects include increased thirst, increased urination, and hand tremors. More serious side effects can include thyroid problems, kidney problems, and a potential decrease in blood cells that help the body fight infections.

Precautions

Before starting lithium treatment, it's important to discuss any existing medical conditions with your healthcare provider. Regular monitoring of blood levels is necessary while taking lithium to ensure the medication is working effectively and to prevent potential side effects.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Lithium (medication)
Wikipedia's article - Lithium (medication)

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Lithium (medication)