YOU ARE NOT ALONE - A companion online community discussion board for The Mental Illness Happy Hour podcast with Paul Gilmartin

Hi,

I've been on Lithium 600 mg, twice daily for Bipolar 1 for close to five years now. Personally, I think it's a wonder drug for me combined with regular counseling and routine blood work. The down side is I've gained close to 10 pounds that I can't seem to shed. It's not drastic on an appearance basis as I've always been in the 36 - 38 waist range, but I wanted to know this has happened to anyone else. I'm also Levotharoxide .75 ml, once a day. While I'll be the first to admit I'm more of an "eat on the fly" guy due to the nature of my job(s), I'm not not an over eater.

Any advise wold be appreciated.

Thanks!

Dave

Hi Dave,

This is normal. Lithium in its chemical (non-pill) form is a salt, which can cause you to retain water or gain weight. Good question!

Best,

Ryan