New user of lithium

[shellbell1775]

Hi I was recently prescribed lithium for my bipolar depression and I was nervous about it at first.  I have been on all kinds of antidepressants and mood stabilizers.  I am currently on 300 mg twice a day, I am also on Lamictal which wasn't doing anything by itself.  My only concern is that I also have Hypothyroidism with Hashimoto's, as well as narcolepsy with cataplexy.  Does anyone know if my thyroid levels will level out over time and with my thyroid meds?  Because I am "manic" right now I am all out of whack and I have lost 10-15 lbs and not sleeping. I have a mess of diagnosis along with a list of meds that keeps getting longer.  I am on stimulants for my narcolepsy and I don't notice getting tired after taking lithium.  I was told it doesn't take long to start working and to be honest I actually got up off the couch and cleaned my house today which I haven't done in more than 2-3 wks because of my depression.  Any info that anyone has on my complex issues would be appreciated!! I will say I have found out a ton of info on lithium reading all the posts so thank you for the info!!  I am hoping this works for me!!

[ScalpMassager]

Lithium's working dose is very close to a toxic dose level.  Even carelessness in not being well hydrated can tip you over into the toxic range, so I urge you to never neglect remaining well hydrated.

I urge you to seek professional advice (from your doctor) for answers to your questions.

[Crystal413]

I too take Lithium and I have Hypothyroidism. It took a while for my dr to try different dosaging in order for all of my Thyroid levels to be in range. My levels are always checked every 3-4 months. I am on Armour Thyroid, 30mg Mon and Wed and 60mg the other days.

[Crystal413]

Just to clarify. When I stated trying different dosaging that was on the Thyroid med.