Lithicarb 400 FC

Uses
Lithicarb (Lithium Carbonate) is an element which is used as a medicine. It can treat depression and control bipolar affective disorder by stabilising the mood and affecting neurotransmitters. This medicine is indicated for the treatment of bipolar disorder (manic depression), so as to treat manic episodes and to manage bipolar symptoms by lowering the frequency of manic episodes.

It is also used for the prophylaxis of depressive disorders. Although the exact mode of action is not clear, it has been hypothesized by medical experts that its multiple actions on various enzymes may be central to its mood stabilising effects. It is known to affect sodium ions (which are believed to play a role in the triggering of mania) in the nerve cells, and it may also affect serotonin (a neurotransmitter).

This in turn can help to normalise neuronal activities. Depression that has not responded to other medicines may be treated with this medicine, and in addition to this, some people have used it for prevention and acute treatment of cluster headaches, eating disorders, neutropenia, alcoholism, tardive dyskinesia, aggression, meniere's disease and other disorders which have not been listed here.

Dosage and Administration
Lithicarb (Lithium Carbonate) comes as 400mg tablets and administration is via the oral route. Doctors normally recommend taking each dose alongside a meal or snack, as this will reduce nausea when compared to an empty stomach. Factors to be considered by the doctor can include the body weight of the patient, the condition being treated and the response to the medicine. Patients are usually told to take it as a single dose at night or else as separate doses administered in the morning and evening.

A blood sample will be needed 4 to 5 days after commencing treatment so as to determine the serum lithium levels. This is important, as too much lithium in the blood could be hazardous to the health of the patient. Regular checking of the lithium blood levels will be needed throughout the course of treatment and patients must comply with all directions provided by their doctor.

Side effects
Some side effects which patients taking Lithicarb (Lithium Carbonate) have experienced include:

• Acne
• Salivation
• Dry or thin hair
• Sore tongue or taste changes
• Itchy sensation on the skin

You must tell the doctor about any side effects which occur during the course of treatment. Attend the hospital immediately if you notice a ringing noise in the ears, passing urine more frequently than before, feeling more sensitive to cold weather, sore eyes, headaches or any other severe reactions that have not been listed here.

Precautions
If you are exercising or undergoing physical activity, ensure that you do not become dehydrated.

Tests on your kidney function may be required by your doctor.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Lithicarb (Lithium Carbonate) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.