Side Effects


What side effects may I notice from receiving Lithium?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

-allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
-breathing problems
-changes in emotions or moods
-changes in vision
-fingers or toes feel numb, cool, painful
-hallucinations, loss of contact with reality
-increased thirst
-increased urination
-mild tremor (hands)
-persistent headache with or without blurred vision
-signs and symptoms of a dangerous change in heartbeat or heart rhythm like chest pain; dizziness; fast, irregular heartbeat; palpitations; feeling faint or lightheaded; falls; breathing problems
-signs and symptoms of lithium toxicity like diarrhea, vomiting, increased tremor, loss of balance or coordination, drowsiness, ringing of the ears, muscle weakness or twitching, slurred speech, confusion, seizures
-unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

-decreased appetite
-mild thirst
-nausea
-stomach upset
-tiredness

This list may not describe all possible side effects for Lithium. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Source: FDA