Drug Name:Lithium
Drug Class:Mood stabilizer
Mechanism of Action:
  • Inhibits the release of norepinephrine and dopamine
  • Increases the reuptake of serotonin
  • Alters intracellular signaling pathways
Use:
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Major depressive disorder
  • Schizoaffective disorder
Side Effects:
  • Tremors
  • Polyuria
  • Weight gain
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Hypothyroidism
Contraindications:
  • Renal impairment
  • Dehydration
  • Sodium depletion
  • Pregnancy
Specialty:
  • Psychiatry
  • Internal medicine