facial numbness

[0zz]

Hi, I am currently on Lithium (1000mg/day) for a recently diagnosed bipolar disorder, been taking Li for 4 months now and i have been getting a feeling round my lips and tongue and up my cheek sometimes like that of a dental anaesthetic wearing off. Now that particular side effect does not appear on the med sheet but is it due to Lithium? I mean has anyone else experienced that or is it just something else to add to my growing list of complaints? (thyroid is affected by the Lithium as well)
thanks, 0zz

[monkeyc]

BTW I must stress you see your doctor  - these could be neurological symptoms and need to be checked.

[monkeyc]

I know its a broken record but ask your doctor about any drug side effects.

As for this one, well it does not appear on any side effect list I have seen for Lithium carbonate.

Yes Lithium has a long list of potential side effects, its also been around since the 1800's which gives it a long history.

And yes there can be a risk of thyroid problems - no lithium does not automatically affect the thyroid - there are many many patients who have taken lithium for decades without a problem.

Like anything if the drug is not working for you see your doctor and change meds, however I caution that everyone remember there are side effects for all drugs like this and you need to be asking about them.