Pros & cons Of Lithium

I have been on Epilim for about 17 years, my GP wants to change me to Lithium. Would like to hear about other people's experience with Lithium as I am trying to make an informed decision. She thinks that I would be more stable on Lithium. I have doubled my weight on Epilim.

hi and welcome to TBBD: I had a search for some information about lithium and found the site below.

http://www.bipolaradviceguide.com/the-pros-cons-side-effects-of-lithium-to-treat-bipolar-disorder

There is a thread also in the Medication section that may help.

Take care
Poetry

I take Lithium, have been on it for about 6 months and find it helpful. Before I was only on AD's which weren't working but now with Lithium added in I can see a light at the end of the tunnel as such. It does mean regular blood tests especially at the start while they keep adjusting the dose, but I feel that by having my mood more stable I can handle a blood test every 6weeks or so.

You shouldnt need blood tests more than 6 monthly once an appropriate dose is worked out and provided no problems are encounted

I've been on lithium now for nealry 2 years in combination with venlafaxine and some other stuff. (I'm bipolar 2). It seems to have kept me mostly stable - no highs or lows apart from two really deep depressions. My doctor has put me on thyroxine because apprently one of the side effects if something to do with the thyroid gland (as well as live function). I don't want to stay on this stuff forever, but right now I think I'm probably better off staying with it. Side effects - well I think it's the venlafaxine that puts me off to sleep - I sleep for at least 9 hours, otherwise nothing to write about.Martinc