Indications 

Lithmax is prescribed for the management of manic episodes in bipolar disorder, characterized by symptoms such as hyperactivity, rapid speech, impaired judgment, decreased need for sleep, aggression, and irritability. 

Moreover, Lithmax can be prescribed as a maintenance therapy for individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder, lessening the occurrence and intensity of manic episodes. 

As an antimanic medication, Lithmax functions to stabilize mood and mitigate behavioral extremes by restoring the balance of specific natural substances (neurotransmitters) within the brain. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before starting or refilling your prescription, carefully review the provided medication guide and patient information leaflet for Lithmax. For any inquiries or additional details, consult your doctor or pharmacist. 

Lithmax dosage varies for each patient based on individual medical conditions, lithium blood levels, and response to the treatment. In children, the dosage is also contingent upon their weight. 

Typically, this medication is taken 2 to 3 times a day as prescribed by the doctor. It can be ingested alongside or immediately after meals to minimize the possibility of stomach upset. 

Avoid crushing or chewing Lithmax tablets, as this action may release the entire drug at once, heightening the risk of side effects. Only split tablets if they have a score line, and upon the recommendation of your doctor or pharmacists, swallow them whole or split without crushing or chewing. 

Dosage adjustments may be made periodically by your doctor. Take this medication consistently and precisely as instructed, at similar times daily for the best outcome. Avoid taking more than prescribed, as even a slightly higher dose can lead to an overdose. 

Continue taking Lithmax even if you feel better; do not discontinue without consulting your doctor. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

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

Inform your doctor if any of the above-listed common side effects persist or worsen. 

Serious Side Effects 

• Faintness or potential fainting 
• Breathlessness 
• Elevated body temperature, increased thirst, or urination 
• Weakness, dizziness, or spinning sensation 
• Memory problems, hallucinations 
• Challenges with balance or muscle movement 
• Loss of bladder or bowel control 
• Seizures (loss of consciousness or convulsions) 
• Low sodium levels:  
  • Headaches 
  • Confusion 
  • Slurred speech 
  • Severe weakness 
  • Vomiting 
  • Loss of coordination 
  • Unsteadiness 
• Thyroid issues:  
  • Fluctuations in weight 
  • Muscle pain 
  • Tremors 
  • Sensitivity to temperature 
  • Skin or hair changes 
  • Excessive sweating 
  • Weakness 
  • Rapid heartbeats 
  • Bowel alterations 
  • Anxiety 
  • Agitation 
• Symptoms of dehydration:  
  • Excessive thirst 
  • Inability to urinate 
  • Profuse sweating 
  • Hot and dry skin 
• Increased intracranial pressure:  
  • Severe headaches 
  • Ringing in ears 
  • Dizziness 
  • Nausea 
  • Vision problems 
  • Eye pain 

Call your doctor immediately if you exhibit any of the above-listed serious side effects. 

Urgently seek medical attention if experiencing signs of serotonin syndrome while on Lithmax, such as: 

• Agitation 
• Hallucinations 
• Elevated body temperature 
• Sweating 
• Increased heart rate 
• Muscle stiffness 
• Twitching 
• Coordination issues 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 

Cease Lithmax and immediately inform your doctor if you encounter signs of lithium toxicity, such as: 

• Muscle weakness 
• Twitching 
• Drowsiness 
• Dizziness 
• Mood swings 
• Blurred vision 
• Ringing in the ears 
• Irregular heartbeats 
• Confusion 
• Slurred speech 
• Lack of coordination 
• Difficulty in breathing  
• Seizures 

Allergic Reactions 

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

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

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

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Lithmax, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to lithium or any of the inactive ingredients in this ER tablet. 

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

• Respiratory issues 
• Cardiac conditions 
• Renal ailments 
• Thyroid dysfunction 
• Irregular electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) 
• Episodes of fainting 
• Seizures 
• Parkinson’s disease 
• Leukemia 
• Infection accompanied by fever 
• Severe dehydration 
• Psoriasis 
• Family history of premature death (before age 45) 

Many medications can interact with Lithmax, specifically including: 

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

To mitigate potential drug interactions, inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as vitamins and herbal supplements. 

Avoid altering your dietary salt intake during treatment with Lithmax, as it may affect the levels of lithium in your blood. 

The use of Lithmax may result in side effects that could affect your cognitive and motor abilities. Exercise caution when operating vehicles or engaging in tasks that demand vigilance and alertness. 

Contact your doctor if you experience illness with fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive sweating during treatment with Lithmax, as these can lead to dehydration and affect your medication requirements. Ensure you stay adequately hydrated by increasing your fluid intake while using this medication. 

Refrain from taking Lithmax without informing your doctor if you are pregnant, as it may pose a risk to the unborn baby. Use reliable birth control and tell your doctor if you become pregnant while undergoing treatment. 

Lithium can transfer to breast milk, potentially causing adverse effects on an infant. Inform your doctor beforehand if you are breastfeeding, as it is not advisable to do so during treatment with Lithmax.