What Lengthy-Time period Use Of Lithium Can Do To Your Physique

Individuals with an excessive amount of lithium within the blood may expertise uncomfortable side effects resembling extreme thirst, nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting, based on a 2023 article in Prescription drugs (Basel). Others may expertise tremors of their fingers. Taking lithium may also lead to weight acquire after long-term use.

Earlier than you start lithium therapy, your physician will verify the well being of your kidneys and thyroid. Lengthy-term use of lithium can result in kidney issues, together with lowered kidney perform. Your physician ought to frequently monitor the degrees of lithium in your system and the well being of your kidneys if you happen to’re taking lithium over an extended time period.

Lengthy-term use of lithium may also impair the perform of your thyroid. You possibly can develop hypothyroidism, which implies your thyroid gland would not produce and launch sufficient of the thyroid hormone. Lithium use might additionally enlarge your thyroid. In case your physician notices issues along with your thyroid, you may take thyroid medicine or discontinue taking lithium.