Eskalith is prescribed for the treatment of bipolar disorder, aiming to stabilize mood and minimize behavioral extremes by rebalancing specific natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain. The continued use of Eskalith can result in reduced frequency of manic episodes and alleviation of manic symptoms, including heightened sense of well-being, paranoia, irritability, anxiety, rapid speech, and aggressive behavior.
Instructions for use:
There are various Eskalith brands available with potentially different effects. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before switching brands. Follow your doctor's instructions when taking Eskalith orally, typically 2-3 times a day. To reduce stomach discomfort, take lithium with or after meals. Avoid crushing or chewing Eskalith, as this can lead to rapid drug release and increased side effects. Only split tablets if instructed by your doctor or pharmacist and if they have a score line. Swallow whole or split tablets without crushing or chewing.
Consume 8 to 12 glasses (8 ounces or 240 milliliters each) of water or other fluids daily, and follow a healthy diet with regular sodium intake as prescribed by your doctor or dietitian when using Eskalith. Significant alterations in your sodium consumption may impact your lithium blood levels. Refrain from adjusting your salt intake without explicit guidance from your healthcare provider.
Consistently utilize Eskalith for optimal results. Establish a routine for taking it at consistent times every day to aid in recall. The prescribed dosage is determined by your medical condition, lithium blood levels, and response to therapy. Maintaining a steady level of the drug in your system is crucial for Eskalith to be effective. Therefore, take the medication at evenly spaced intervals.
It is important to follow the prescribed instructions for taking Eskalith. Even if you start feeling better, continue taking lithium as directed. Do not discontinue the medication without first consulting your doctor, as suddenly stopping it could worsen certain conditions. Seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Notify your doctor if there is no improvement in your condition or if it deteriorates. It may take 1 to 3 weeks to observe a positive change in your condition.
Side Effects
Potential side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, increased thirst, frequent urination, weight gain, and fine tremors in the hands. These side effects should diminish as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Keep in mind that your physician has recommended Eskalith to you because they have determined that the advantages outweigh the potential risks of experiencing side effects. It is common for many individuals who use Eskalith to not encounter any severe side effects. Should you experience any severe side effects, such as diarrhea, vomiting, difficulty walking, confusion, slurred speech, blurred vision, pronounced hand tremors, changes in vision, joint swelling or pain, discoloration or pain in fingers or toes, or cold extremities, promptly inform your doctor.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe side effects such as extreme dizziness, fainting, rapid or irregular heartbeat, difficulty breathing, or seizures while using Eskalith. This medication can elevate serotonin levels and potentially lead to a dangerous condition called serotonin syndrome/toxicity. The risk of this condition is higher if you are taking other medications that also boost serotonin levels, so inform your healthcare provider about all the drugs you are taking. Contact a medical professional urgently if you develop symptoms like rapid heartbeat, hallucinations, lack of coordination, severe dizziness, intense nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle twitching, unexplained fever, or unusual restlessness.
A rare and very serious allergic reaction to this drug. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: swollen lymph nodes, rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Warnings and precautions:
Before using lithium, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or other drugs. This product may contain inactive ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or other problems. Contact your pharmacist for more details.
Prior to taking this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical background, particularly if you have a history of heart disease, kidney disease, urinary issues, an underactive thyroid, seizures, Parkinson's disease, leukemia, severe dehydration, any infection accompanied by high fever, or a specific skin condition like psoriasis. In some rare cases, lithium therapy may uncover a pre-existing heart rhythm disorder known as Brugada syndrome, a potentially fatal inherited condition that some individuals may be unaware of having.
This can cause serious (possibly fatal) abnormal heart rhythms and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath) that require immediate medical attention. Brugada syndrome can lead to sudden death. Before starting lithium treatment, tell your doctor if you have the following risk factors: Brugada syndrome, unexplained fainting, a family history of certain heart problems (Brugada syndrome, sudden unexplained death before age 45).
