Drug reference
lithium
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Central Nervous System (Miscellaneous(CNS))
Mechanism of action
Inhibits postsynaptic D2 receptor supersensitivity Alters cation transport in nerve and muscle cells and influences reuptake of serotonin or norepinephrine Inhibits phosphatidylinositol cycle second messenger systems
Common side effects
- Dry mouth
- Confusion
- Leukocytosis (most patients)
- Polyuria/polydypsia
- Hand tremor
- Decreased memory
Known interactions (6)
- carbamazepine + lithium Major
- enalapril + lithium Major
- hydrochlorothiazide + lithium Major
- ibuprofen + lithium Major
- lisinopril + lithium Major
- dronedarone + lithium Moderate
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is lithium?
lithium belongs to: Central Nervous System.
How does lithium work?
Inhibits postsynaptic D2 receptor supersensitivity Alters cation transport in nerve and muscle cells and influences reuptake of serotonin or norepinephrine Inhibits phosphatidylinositol cycle second messenger systems
What are the common side effects of lithium?
Dry mouth, Confusion, Leukocytosis (most patients), Polyuria/polydypsia, Hand tremor, Decreased memory
Which drugs interact with lithium?
carbamazepine, enalapril, hydrochlorothiazide, ibuprofen, lisinopril, dronedarone
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