Indications 

Lithane is a prescribed medication used for the management of manic episodes associated with bipolar I disorder, characterized by symptoms such as hyperactivity, rapid speech, impaired judgment, decreased need for sleep, aggression, and irritability. 

Moreover, Lithane can serve as a maintenance therapy, lowering the occurrence and severity of manic episodes. 

As an antimanic agent, Lithane stabilizes mood and mitigates behavioral extremes by restoring the balance of specific natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain. 

Uses and Dosage 

Read the accompanying medication guide and patient information leaflet of Lithane before initial use and with each prescription refill. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for any questions or further information. 

The dosage of Lithane is different for each patient, considering their medical conditions, lithium blood levels, and treatment response. For children, the dosage is also weight dependent. 

This medication is taken per the doctor’s prescription, typically 3 to 4 times daily. Taking it with or immediately after meals can help reduce stomach upset. 

Consume 8 to 12 glasses (8 ounces/240 milliliters each) of water or other fluids daily and maintain a healthy diet with standard salt intake as instructed by your doctor or dietitian while on this medication. 

For optimal results, take Lithane regularly, exactly as prescribed, around the same time each day. Do not alter the prescribed dose and frequency of intake without your doctor’s permission. 

Consult your doctor before discontinuing this medication, as stopping it abruptly can exacerbate certain conditions. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Dizziness, drowsiness 
• Hand tremors 
• Difficulty walking 
• Dry mouth, increased thirst, or urination 
• Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite 
• Skin rash 
• Blurred vision 

Tell your doctor promptly if any of the above-listed common side effects continue or worsen. 

Serious Side Effects 

• Feeling light-headed with potential fainting 
• Shortness of breath 
• Fever, increased thirst, or urination 
• Weakness, dizziness, or spinning sensation 
• Memory issues, hallucinations 
• Balance or muscle movement problems 
• Loss of bowel or bladder control 
• Seizure (blackout or convulsions) 
• Low sodium levels: 
  • Headache 
  • Confusion 
  • Slurred speech 
  • Severe weakness 
  • Vomiting 
  • Loss of coordination 
  • Unsteadiness 
• Thyroid problems: 
  • Weight changes 
  • Muscle pain 
  • Tremors 
  • Temperature sensitivity 
  • Skin or hair alterations 
  • Sweating 
  • Weakness 
  • Rapid heartbeats 
  • Bowel changes 
  • Anxiety  
  • Agitation 
• Dehydration symptoms: 
  • Excessive thirst 
  • Inability to urinate 
  • Heavy sweating 
  • Hot and dry skin 
• Increased intracranial pressure: 
  • Severe headaches 
  • Ringing in ears 
  • Dizziness 
  • Nausea 
  • Vision problems 
  • Eye pain 

Contact your doctor right away if you exhibit any of the above-listed serious side effects. 

Immediately seek medical help if experiencing symptoms of serotonin syndrome while taking Lithane, including; 

• Agitation 
• Hallucinations 
• Fever 
• Sweating 
• Rapid heart rate 
• Muscle stiffness 
• Twitching 
• Coordination problems 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 

Discontinue Lithane and promptly contact your doctor if you experience symptoms of lithium toxicity, such as: 

• Muscle weakness 
• Twitching 
• Drowsiness 
• Dizziness 
• Mood changes 
• Blurred vision 
• Ringing in the ears 
• Irregular heartbeats 
• Confusion 
• Slurred speech 
• Lack of coordination 
• Breathing difficulties 
• Seizures 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Lithane can occur. Prompt medical attention should be sought if any of the following symptoms manifest: 

• Hives 
• Difficult breathing 
• Swelling in the face, lips, tongue, or throat 

This list does not include all potential side effects of Lithane. Inform your doctor should any unlisted effects arise. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Lithane, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to lithium or any of its inactive ingredients. 

To ensure Lithane is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Heart disease 
• Kidney disease 
• Urinary issues (e.g., difficulty urinating) 
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) 
• Seizures 
• Parkinson’s disease 
• Leukemia 
• Dehydration 
• Infections with high fever 
• Psoriasis 

Several medications can interact with Lithane, notably: 

• Buspirone 
• Fentanyl 
• St. John’s wort 
• Tramadol 
• Triptan 
• Tryptophan 
• Antidepressants or antipsychotic medications 
• MAO inhibitors such as:  
  • Isocarboxazid  
  • Linezolid 
  • Methylene blue injection 
  • Phenelzine 
  • Rasagiline 
  • Selegiline 
  • Tranylcypromine 

To mitigate the risk of such interactions, inform your doctor about all your medications, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. 

Significant alterations in your salt intake can impact your lithium blood levels. Refrain from adjusting your salt intake unless specifically instructed by your doctor. Even a slightly higher than prescribed dose of Lithane can lead to lithium toxicity. 

Lithane may induce side effects that could hinder your cognitive abilities or responses. Exercise caution when driving or engaging in activities that demand attentiveness and wakefulness. 

Ensure you do not overheat or become dehydrated while exercising or in hot weather while on Lithane treatment. Adhere to your doctor’s guidance regarding the quantity and type of fluids you should consume. In certain situations, excessive fluid intake can be as hazardous as inadequate hydration. 

Lithane treatment could reveal the presence of a pre-existing heart condition called Brugada Syndrome, marked by abnormal ECG results and the risk of sudden death. Seek emergency help if fainting, dizziness, irregular heart rhythms, or breathlessness occur. 

Inform your doctor before taking Lithane if you are pregnant, as it may harm the unborn baby. Use a reliable form of birth control and notify your doctor if you become pregnant while under treatment. 

Lithium transfers into breast milk and could negatively affect a nursing baby. Refrain from breastfeeding while taking Lithane and consult your doctor before nursing.