Common Questions about Lithium Carbonate

What are normal serum concentrations of lithium?

Therapeutic concentrations of lithium are 0.8 to 1.2 mEq/L. Lithium toxicity occurs at serum concentrations of 1.5 mEq/L or higher, which is close to the therapeutic range. This is why it is important to keep all your healthcare appointments during lithium therapy. Your provider will order blood tests to measure serum lithium concentrations to ensure you are in the therapeutic range.

Is lithium an antipsychotic?

No, lithium is not an antipsychotic. It is a mood stabilizer and is used to treat acute manic episodes in people with bipolar disorder as well as for maintenance treatment of this condition.

Is lithium addictive?

No, lithium is not addictive. You will not develop cravings if you stop taking lithium after taking it for a long time. You cannot get “hooked” on this medicine.

Does lithium cause weight gain?

Although lithium can cause weight changes (weight gain or weight loss), studies have shown that these are not common side effects.

Is it safe to take lithium daily?

Lithium is generally safe to take daily for the long-term. It is the mainstay of maintenance treatment for bipolar disorder and most people can take it for years without problems. However, you should keep all your medical and laboratory appointments during lithium therapy, as this drug can cause problems with your kidneys, thyroid gland, and other organs.

What is the price of lithium without insurance?

Without insurance, lithium can be as high as $19.86, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $9.09 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.

What is the price of lithium with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on lithium—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for lithium. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.