What is the difference between lithium orotate and lithium carbonate

Would you please share your list of references? I would start at five mg and slowly go up to 20mg. Twenty is the Max probably. Thank you so much for a trustworthy post. I have been trying to get lithium oratate to work for me for years and I finally think that microdosing it seems to get me results that I understand. A better understanding on what bipolar feels like to me and microdosing 2. I can say I feel more even and less erratic. Almost boring but in a good nice way.

Not feeling amazing how some people stated as their experience. I am becoming more suicidal between May and September inclusive. I have been in 3 mental units during thiose months including twice last year. What level of lithium orotate do I need to take during the high and increasing risk months of the year? I have a Bipolar friend that takes 40mg a day and it keeps her regulated. Does lithium oratate cause weight gain or hair loss. Also i am on tiptoe and lexapro is it safe to use with these meds.

RSS feed for comments on this post. Name required. There are some claims that lithium orotate is better absorbed or more active, so lower doses are still effective. But there is no clear evidence no randomized, placebo-controlled, blinded trials showing that low doses of lithium orotate are effective for treatment or long-term prevention of mood symptoms.

Still, it is possible that very low doses of lithium are helpful for some people. Lithium is a naturally occurring mineral, and trace amounts are present in the water many of us drink. And areas with more lithium in the water supply tend to have lower suicide rates! But if you are taking prescription lithium, you definitely do not want to switch to a low-dose nutritional supplement without talking with your doctor.

For some people, suddenly stopping lithium or suddenly decreasing the dose can cause severe mood swings or symptoms of mania. As levels get higher, symptoms of being unsteady, slurred speech, muscle twitches, and weakness, and confusion appear. A level of 2. Symptoms can include severe neurological signs such as delirium and unconsciousness. Heart arrhythmias may also occur, which if, untreated, can be fatal.

Other tests such as blood chemistries and an EKG may be needed depending on many factors. There are several ways in which the risk of side effects and toxicity can be reduced.

One is to minimize the dose so that blood levels are on the lower side of the therapeutic window. The timing of the dose may also be helpful. Certainly, monitoring of blood levels is important on a regular basis as well as if any new symptoms should arise. In some cases, medications can be used to reduce certain side effects. Lithium can be an excellent drug for people with bipolar disorder and can sometimes be a lifesaver, as it has been found to decrease the rate of suicide, a significant risk among people with the condition.

If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at for support and assistance from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database. Careful monitoring of levels is critical to reducing the potential for toxicity and its consequences.

Side effects are common, and many of these are more annoying than dangerous. Lab tests must be monitored to minimize the risk of kidney and thyroid dysfunction.

With monitoring, however, and a careful understanding of the early symptoms of toxicity, many people have been able to enjoy the benefits of this medication without significant risks.

Dealing with racing thoughts? Always feeling tired? Our guide offers strategies to help you or your loved one live better with bipolar disorder. Sign up for our newsletter and get it free. Gitlin M. Lithium side effects and toxicity: prevalence and management strategies. International Journal of Bipolar Disorder.

Praharaj SK. Metformin for lithium-induced weight gain: a case report. Clin Psychopharmacol Neurosci. Lithium poisoning. Journal of Intensive Care Medicine. Finley, P. Drug interactions with lithium: an update. Clinical Pharmacokinetics.