Lithium carbonate

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Lithium Carbonate

Lithium carbonate (pronounced as Lith-ee-um Car-bon-ate) is a chemical compound often used in medical treatments. It is most commonly used as a psychiatric medication.

Etymology

The term "Lithium" originates from the Greek word "lithos" meaning stone, as it was first discovered in mineral form. "Carbonate" refers to the presence of the carbonate ion, CO3^2-, in the compound.

Medical Uses

Lithium carbonate is primarily used to treat bipolar disorder, a mental health condition causing extreme mood swings. It can also be used to treat depression and schizophrenia. It works by affecting the flow of sodium through nerve and muscle cells in the body, which affects excitation or mania.

Side Effects

Common side effects of lithium carbonate include increased thirst, increased urination, and hand tremors. More serious side effects can include thyroid problems, kidney problems, and low sodium levels.

Related Terms

  • Bipolar disorder: A mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings.
  • Depression: A mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities.
  • Schizophrenia: A long-term mental disorder involving a breakdown in the relation between thought, emotion, and behavior.
  • Thyroid: A large ductless gland in the neck that secretes hormones regulating growth and development.
  • Kidney: Each of a pair of organs in the abdominal cavity of mammals, birds, and reptiles, excreting urine.
  • Low sodium: A condition that occurs when the level of sodium in your blood is abnormally low.

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