How Harmful is Lithium When You Have a Thyroid Disorder

[bunnygirl1112]

I was just wondering how lithium affects the thyroid since I have a mild form of bipolar disorder.  Also in general is lithium a suitable drug for bipolar patients?  I am affraid that the lithium may be causing more issues than not for my hypothyroidism.  Thanks!!

[jimgreg]

YOUR DOC WILL HAVE TO ANSWER THAT FOR...YOU...i know that theres problems getting the dose that you need because of a thyroid disorder....your pdoc will know what to do..good luck my friend

[monkeyc]

Lithium for people with a thyroid disorder is not normally reccomended nor prescribed.

This was a psychiatrist right?  Did they do any blood work?

Lithium is fine for BP patients - its the single most prescribed first line mood stabiliser in the world and its the most effective in both phases however it has caveats and needs blood testing and patient profiling.

[ajaxb]

hey i have bio polar as well havent been on meds for 1 yr now but just started on the lithuim carb i dont no much about it but i need
before it turns out bad
so if any one knows more bout it plz msg bak

[LeftCoastChick]

Freebird is right, as well  you should have blood tests each month on this drug anyways. Get them to do a thryoid function test as well. Are you on a thyroid med? You may have to get it tweaked. It's pretty rare that it will cause major harm. It's a good drug with a long history of research.

[freebird227]

The best person to ask this question to would be your doctor. When was the last time you had your Thyroid checked? I've never been asked about my thyroid when taken lithium but when starting Lamictal this ...thats the first thing my doctor  asked Your meds should come with an info pack and sometimes the phar. can answer generic question.I would try my dr first .Hoped this helped