How Long Does it Take for Lithium to Work? — Talkspace
Lithium is a medication used to control the symptoms of bipolar disorder and the symptoms of other conditions. Helps balance mood swings and avoid manic episode phases. In multiple studies, has been shown to drastically reduce suicide attempts. If you have recently started, or are considering starting, lithium therapy, you may be wondering How long does lithium take to take effect??
First, it is essential to know that it can take some time to experience the full effects of lithium medication. Most people find that lithium starts working within a couple of weeks, but the results are different for everyone.
Read on as we explore how long lithium takes to work, how you’ll know when it’s doing its job, and what to do if you’re not getting the results you expect.
Time line to work
The timeline for lithium medications to start working will vary from person to person. Some people start to notice the medication working within 2 weeks, but some people may take up to several months before optimal results are felt. Studies show Lithium can take approximately 1-3 weeks to fully work to the point of significant remission of symptoms.
How long does lithium take to work for depression?
First, keep in mind that lithium therapy is only approved to treat bipolar depression. That being said, for some people, it can start to alleviate the symptoms of depression within 1-3 weeks.
How long does it take for lithium for bipolar disorder to work?
For most people, lithium will start working to reduce bipolar disorder symptoms within several weeks. Again, it is important to remember that results can vary and lithium treatment will not work the same for everyone.
Psychiatry and Prescriptions Online
Receive an evaluation and a prescription for mental health medications (if needed) from a psychiatrically trained medical provider.
How do you know if lithium is working?
We don’t fully know how or why lithium is a mood stabilizer, but we do understand that it works by acting on the central nervous system. Lithium can help stabilize emotions and mood swings, making it easier to manage symptoms of bipolar disorder and depression.
Especially in the beginning, your doctor will likely monitor closely how lithium affects you through regular checkups and blood tests.
What are the immediate effects of lithium?
It is possible to have mild lithium side effects when you first take this medication. For example, many people experience increased thirst, mild hand tremors, and nausea. These side effects can be uncomfortable, but they indicate that the psychiatric medication is having an effect.
If symptoms and side effects increase or worsen to the point that you are uncomfortable or unable to continue taking the medication, contact your doctor as soon as possible. The dose may need to be adjusted or you may need a new medication entirely.
“It will reduce the symptoms of depression or mania. This will make the mood feel more stable. Please discuss any concerns with your doctor.”
– Dr. Dion Metzger, Talkspace psychiatrist
Factors Affecting the Onset of Lithium Action
Several factors can affect the appearance of lithium. Whether you are just starting this psychiatric medication, are considering starting treatment, or have been taking Lithium for quite some time, it is important to understand the different factors that can affect how Lithium works.
- Dose: Your dose can always be a factor in how well or how quickly a medication works. Therefore, if you feel that your dose of lithium is not working as it should, ask your doctor if your dose is correct.
- Sodium: Sodium can have a significant impact on how lithium works in the body. Talk to your healthcare provider about your diet, and do not suddenly change your sodium intake while taking Lithium.
- Caffeine: Caffeine is another drug that has the potential to affect the effectiveness of lithium. Be aware of your caffeine intake. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are concerned that it is affecting how your lithium treatment works.
- Alcohol: Like many medications, alcohol can have an impact on the effectiveness of a dose of lithium. Avoid or limit your alcohol intake if you are taking lithium for bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions.
“Ibuprofen and diuretics can increase lithium levels in patients, so it is recommended to consult with your doctor if you are taking any of these medications.”
– Conversation Space Therapist Dr. Dion Metzger
What to do when lithium doesn’t work
If you think this medicine is not working as expected, talk to your doctor. They may want to adjust your dosage or look into alternative treatment plans.
Get personalized mental health treatment with Talkspace
Talkspace is an online psychiatry and therapy platform that can help you effectively manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions you are living with. Our experienced mental health experts are here to help you gain control through personalized treatment plans designed for your exact needs. Whether or not that includes an online lithium prescription, an online psychiatrist is here to help you find the right treatment.
Contact Talkspace today to learn more about how we’re changing the face of mental health care through convenient, affordable therapy access available to you anytime. Whether you’re wondering how long lithium will work or have any other mental health medication questions, Talkspace is here to help.
Sources:
- Lewitzka U, Severus E, Bauer R, Ritter P, Müller-Oerlinghausen B, Bauer M. The effect of lithium on suicide prevention: more than 20 years of evidence: a narrative review. International Journal of Bipolar Disorders. 2015;3(1). doi:10.1186/s40345-015-0032-2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4504869/ Accessed March 20, 2023.
- Chokhawala K, Lee S, Saadabadi A. Lithium. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519062/ Published February 26, 2023. Accessed March 20, 2023.
Talkspace articles are written by experienced mental health and wellness contributors; They are based on scientific research and evidence-based practices. Articles are thoroughly reviewed by our team of clinical experts (therapists and psychiatrists from various specialties) to ensure that the content is accurate and up to current industry standards.
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