Eskalith (Lithium Carbonate)
Eskalith (Lithium Carbonate)
Eskalith (Lithium Carbonate) is a mood-stabilizing medication primarily prescribed to treat bipolar disorder, including manic and depressive episodes. It helps to reduce the frequency and severity of mood swings and is also used to help prevent the recurrence of these episodes. Lithium carbonate acts on the central nervous system to help stabilize mood and mental balance.
Why Choose Eskalith (Lithium Carbonate)?
- Effective Mood Stabilizer: Helps in managing symptoms of bipolar disorder, including manic and depressive episodes.
- Prevents Recurrence: Regular use under medical supervision can reduce the recurrence of mood episodes.
- Long-Standing Use: A well-researched and time-tested medication in mental health care.
- Additional Benefits: May help in reducing the risk of suicide in patients with bipolar disorder.
How to Use Eskalith (Lithium Carbonate)?
- Doctor Consultation: Always begin treatment under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
- Dosage: Taken orally, the dosage and frequency will depend on the patient’s medical condition and response to treatment.
- Monitoring: Regular blood tests are necessary to ensure lithium levels are within therapeutic range and to avoid toxicity.
- Duration: As directed by a healthcare provider, Eskalith is often used long-term for mood stabilization.
- With or Without Food: Eskalith can be taken with or without food, but it’s essential to consume consistently about meals to maintain stable absorption.
Important Safety Information about Eskalith
- Contraindications: Avoid if you have severe renal or cardiovascular disease, severe dehydration, or sodium depletion.
- Interactions: Lithium may interact with NSAIDs, diuretics, and other medications which could increase lithium levels, potentially leading to toxicity.
- Pregnancy and Nursing: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Lithium can pass into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby.
Fact Table
Facts | Details |
Generic Name | Lithium Carbonate |
Brand Name | Eskalith, Eskalith-CR |
Drug Class | Mood stabilizer |
FDA Approved | Yes |
Indications | Treatment of bipolar disorder, particularly manic episodes |
Dosage Forms | Tablet, Extended-release capsule |
Common Dosage | Typically starts at 600 mg/day, adjusted based on blood lithium levels |
Administration | Oral |
Mechanism of Action | Alters sodium transport in nerve and muscle cells; influences reuptake of neurotransmitters |
Key Side Effects | Nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, muscle weakness, tremor, increased thirst and urination |
Contraindications | Severe renal or cardiovascular disease, dehydration, sodium depletion |
Monitoring Required | Blood lithium levels, kidney function, thyroid function |
Interactions | Diuretics, NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, antipsychotics, and other medications affecting kidney function |
Pregnancy Category | D (potential benefits may warrant use despite potential risks) |
Nursing Considerations | Not recommended due to the potential for serious adverse effects on the nursing infant |
Common Side Effects
Like all medications, Eskalith (Lithium Carbonate) can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Understanding these side effects can help you use this medication safely and effectively.
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Mild thirst
- Frequent urination
If you experience any side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can offer advice and may adjust your treatment if necessary. Report any severe or unexpected side effects immediately.
How Can You Buy Eskalith (Lithium Carbonate)?
You can order Eskalith (Lithium Carbonate) using these methods on our website:
- Order Online
- Order by Phone
- Order by Fax
- Order your refills
Visit our How to order page.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it safe to take Lithium Carbonate during pregnancy?
- What if I miss a dose of Lithium Carbonate?
- Is Lithium Carbonate addictive?
- Can Lithium Carbonate cause weight gain?
- What precautions should I take when I take Lithium Carbonate?
- How should Lithium Carbonate be taken?
- What are the side effects of Lithium Carbonate?
- How does Lithium Carbonate work?
- What is Lithium Carbonate used for?