Questions in the
Mental Health Forum
have been answered by
Roger L. Gould, M.D., affiliated with U.C.L.A. and
by doctors from Henry Ford Health System.
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Subject: Re: lithium Topic Area:Posted by HFHS M.D.-TB on April 17, 1999 at 20:42:12Topic Area: Bipolar Disorderif you get hypothyroid while taking lithium and stop taking lithium how long does it take for the thyroid to get back to normal and do you haft to take medication to get it back to normal
Dear Barbara, Reports have shown that seven to nine percent of patients taking lithium will develop hypothyroidism. Once lithium is discontinued, the hypothyroid condition is reversible in most cases. I do not have information at this time on how long it takes for the thyroid to be restored back to normal function, however I would imagine this would vary depending on the person involved and the severity of hypothyroidism. If symptoms of hypothroidism are present on lithium, and it is necessary to continue lithium, treatment with thyroid hormone replacement is indicated. I hope that this information has been helpful for you. It is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace consultation with your physician. If you wish to see a mental health professional at Henry Ford Hospital, please call 1-248-689-7476 for an appointment.
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