Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is lithium. It helps to treat bipolar disorder. It can also help you think more clearly and have fewer mood swings. It may have other uses, too. 

Lithium is available as a tablet, capsule, and liquid. If you take the liquid, always use a measuring spoon or dosing spoon to measure your dose and never a household spoon. Your doctor will determine what dose is right for you and how often you should take it. You should take it exactly how your doctor tells you to. It is best to take this medicine with food to reduce getting an upset stomach. 

Most people tolerate this medicine well. You could feel tired or a little dizzy. You should wait until you know how it affects you before you do activities that require you to be alert, like driving. Other common side effects include an upset stomach, constipation, thinning hair and a change in sex drive or function. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking it, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. You should not suddenly stop taking this medicine unless your doctor says it's okay.

As with any medicine, rare but more serious side effects could occur. With lithium, this includes tremors, lack of coordination and heart rhythm changes. It is very important to read the Medication Guide for full information about this and other effects. Your doctor will order blood tests before and while you take lithium to make sure you are taking the right dose and that this medicine is safe for you.

Lithium can interact with other medicines. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medicines, over-the-counter medications, and vitamin or herbal supplements. 

Women should check with their doctors before becoming pregnant and should not breastfeed.

For best results, take lithium exactly as prescribed for you.