Lithium (side-effects)

Question 1

Side-effects of lithium include:-

Answer 1

Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Polyuria
Polydipsia
Nausea
Weight gain
Fine tremor
Metallic taste
Diarrhoea
Muscle weakness

Question 2

Side-effects are dose (plasma level) related. Propranolol can be helpful for fine tremor. Lithium is also known to exacerbate certain skin conditions including psoriasis and acne.

Long-term use is associated with the following:-

Answer 2

Hypothyroidism
Irreversible nephrogenic diabetes insipidus
Reduced GFR (chronic kidney disease)
Hyperparathyroidism