Lithiumis a commonly prescribed medication for treatingbipolar disorderand other mental health conditions. Like any medication, there are side effects of Lithium, so it’s not unreasonable to wonderdoes Lithium cause weight gain?Many people who take Lithium experience an increase in body weight, although how much varies from person to person.
Lithium prescription onlineGet an evaluation and prescription for Lithium from a psychiatric provider licensed in your state.Get started
Lithium prescription onlineGet an evaluation and prescription for Lithium from a psychiatric provider licensed in your state.
Lithium prescription online
Get an evaluation and prescription for Lithium from a psychiatric provider licensed in your state.
Weight gain from Lithium treatment can differ depending on dosage, how long you take Lithium, and other factors. Read on to learn everything you need about Lithium and weight gain.
Does Lithium Cause Weight Gain?Does Lithium make you gain weight? Yes, Lithium can cause weight gain. It’s a common side effect of the drug and can be significant in some people. Weight gain from Lithium can vary widely between individuals depending on dose, duration of treatment, and if any other drugs are taken at the same time.How much weight do people gain on Lithium?There is no definitive answer about how much Lithium weight gain you might expect.Studies suggestthat up to 20% of people who take Lithium may observe substantial weight gain, up to 22 pounds or more.
Does Lithium Cause Weight Gain?
Does Lithium make you gain weight? Yes, Lithium can cause weight gain. It’s a common side effect of the drug and can be significant in some people. Weight gain from Lithium can vary widely between individuals depending on dose, duration of treatment, and if any other drugs are taken at the same time.
How much weight do people gain on Lithium?
There is no definitive answer about how much Lithium weight gain you might expect.Studies suggestthat up to 20% of people who take Lithium may observe substantial weight gain, up to 22 pounds or more.
Why Does Lithium Cause Weight Gain?
Potential causes for weight gain on Lithium might include:
Edema
Edema, a type of bloating, may be the culprit behind weight gain connected to Lithium use in some people. Lithium might cause fluid retention, leading to swelling in the hands and feet.
Increased appetite
Constipation
Constipation can be a side effect of the drug. This might further exacerbate the issue of weight gain as it slows down digestion and makes it harder for the body to absorb nutrients from food properly.
Taste changes and cravings and increased thirst
Changes in taste preferences are a factor that may contribute to increased weight gain from Lithium use. Almost all participants in onestudyreported increased thirst due to Lithium. This can be linked to weight gain when drinking high-caloric beverages.
Hormonal changes
“Approximately 20% of users gain weight with Lithium due to the adverse effects causing increased appetite, thirst, and constipation. If you have any concerns, make sure to reach out to your doctor.”
Does Lithium Weight Gain Go Away?Weight gain can result from taking Lithium, but it’s not necessarily permanent. In some cases, the weight gain from Lithium can be lost after stopping treatment.Studies showthat Lithium weight gain seems to peak within the first 2 years of taking this psychiatric medication. Many people will then see their weight stabilize after that.How long does weight gain from Lithium last?Generally, Lithium weight gain begins soon after treatment initiation. It may persist for up to 6 months, with some individuals continuing to experience increases beyond that period if they remain on the medication. After that, many people find that their weight stabilizes or decreases slightly. However, some individuals may experience continued weight gain beyond 6 months if they remain on Lithium therapy.
Does Lithium Weight Gain Go Away?
Weight gain can result from taking Lithium, but it’s not necessarily permanent. In some cases, the weight gain from Lithium can be lost after stopping treatment.Studies showthat Lithium weight gain seems to peak within the first 2 years of taking this psychiatric medication. Many people will then see their weight stabilize after that.
How long does weight gain from Lithium last?
Generally, Lithium weight gain begins soon after treatment initiation. It may persist for up to 6 months, with some individuals continuing to experience increases beyond that period if they remain on the medication. After that, many people find that their weight stabilizes or decreases slightly. However, some individuals may experience continued weight gain beyond 6 months if they remain on Lithium therapy.
How to Avoid Gaining Weight on Lithium
“The Lithium weight gain will regulate itself within the year. However, if this is a concern, here are some ways in which you can control the Lithium weight gain: #1 exercise, #2 drink more water, #3 get enough sleep, and #4 discuss weight gain with your doctor.”
You can take these measures to avoid gaining weight while you’re taking Lithium.
If, after making these lifestyle changes and monitoring your progress closely, the psychiatric medication isn’t helping manage symptoms without causing undesired side effects such as significant weight gain, then it’s important to speak with your doctor about other options. This way, symptom management goals, and desired aesthetic results can be achieved together.
Whatever you do, don’t quit the medication cold turkey. It’s recommended that you speak to a doctor first to avoidLithium withdrawal.
Talk to Your Doctor About Lithium Side EffectsLithium can be a beneficialbipolar medicationthat can improve your mental health. Though it can effectively treat symptoms, it might lead to weight fluctuations that should be discussed with a doctor. If your weight gain from Lithium treatment is significant, your doctor might try adjusting your dosage or switching medications.If you’re concerned about potential Lithium weight gain or looking to get a prescription forLithium online, anonline psychiatristat Talkspace can help. So take the first step towards a healthier lifestyle and reach out to Talkspace today.
Talk to Your Doctor About Lithium Side Effects
Lithium can be a beneficialbipolar medicationthat can improve your mental health. Though it can effectively treat symptoms, it might lead to weight fluctuations that should be discussed with a doctor. If your weight gain from Lithium treatment is significant, your doctor might try adjusting your dosage or switching medications.
If you’re concerned about potential Lithium weight gain or looking to get a prescription forLithium online, anonline psychiatristat Talkspace can help. So take the first step towards a healthier lifestyle and reach out to Talkspace today.
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