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What is Eskalith
Lithium carbonateThe Generic name of this drug
Treatment SummaryLithium is a medication used to treat manic episodes, a symptom of bipolar disorder. While it has been used for centuries, the exact way it works is still unknown. It is a powerful drug and must be closely monitored to ensure that the dose is within a safe range, as too much can cause adverse effects.
Eskalithis the brand name
Eskalith Overview & Background
Brand Name
Generic Name
First FDA Approval
How many FDA approvals?
Eskalith
Lithium carbonate
1970
174
Effectiveness
How Eskalith Affects PatientsThe exact way that lithium works is unknown, but it is thought to reduce symptoms of mental illness by inhibiting certain enzymes or affecting the activity of the chemical glutamate in the brain.
How Eskalith works in the bodyThe exact way lithium works in the body is not well understood. However, one theory suggests that it works by limiting the amount of inositol, a chemical found in cells, in the body. It is thought to do this by blocking an enzyme called inositol monophosphatase and another enzyme called inositol polyphosphatase. Lithium also affects a third enzyme called glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3). This enzyme helps control the activity of other enzymes by modifying their structure with a process called phosphorylation. Lithium can also stop GSK-3 from working by blocking the
When to interrupt dosage
The measure of Eskalith is contingent upon the diagnosed condition. The amount of dosage diverges, depending on the technique of delivery (e.g. Oral or Tablet, extended release - Oral) outlined in the table beneath.Condition
Dosage
Administration
Bipolar Disorder
, 300.0 mg, 150.0 mg, 600.0 mg, 450.0 mg, 400.0 mg, 250.0 mg, 8.0 meq/mL
, Tablet, extended release, Oral, Tablet, extended release - Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Capsule, Capsule - Oral, Capsule, gelatin coated, Capsule, gelatin coated - Oral, Tablet, film coated, extended release, Tablet, film coated, extended release - Oral, Solution, Solution - Oral
Bipolar Disorder
, 300.0 mg, 150.0 mg, 600.0 mg, 450.0 mg, 400.0 mg, 250.0 mg, 8.0 meq/mL
, Tablet, extended release, Oral, Tablet, extended release - Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Capsule, Capsule - Oral, Capsule, gelatin coated, Capsule, gelatin coated - Oral, Tablet, film coated, extended release, Tablet, film coated, extended release - Oral, Solution, Solution - Oral
Acute Coryza
, 300.0 mg, 150.0 mg, 600.0 mg, 450.0 mg, 400.0 mg, 250.0 mg, 8.0 meq/mL
, Tablet, extended release, Oral, Tablet, extended release - Oral, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Capsule, Capsule - Oral, Capsule, gelatin coated, Capsule, gelatin coated - Oral, Tablet, film coated, extended release, Tablet, film coated, extended release - Oral, Solution, Solution - Oral
Warnings
Eskalith ContraindicationsCondition
Risk Level
Notes
Severe Hypersensitivity Reactions
Do Not Combine
Lithium Carbonate may interact with Pulse Frequency
Common Eskalith Drug Interactions
Drug Name
Risk Level
Description
Azelastine
Major
Lithium carbonate may increase the central nervous system depressant (CNS depressant) activities of Azelastine.
Ethanol
Major
Lithium carbonate may increase the central nervous system depressant (CNS depressant) activities of Ethanol.
Neomycin
Major
The risk or severity of nephrotoxicity can be increased when Lithium carbonate is combined with Neomycin.
Oliceridine
Major
The risk or severity of hypotension, sedation, death, somnolence, and respiratory depression can be increased when Lithium carbonate is combined with Oliceridine.
Tenofovir
Major
Lithium carbonate may increase the nephrotoxic activities of Tenofovir.
Eskalith Toxicity & Overdose RiskIn rats, the lowest toxic dose of lithium carbonate has been found to be 525mg/kg when taken orally and more than 2.17mg/L when inhaled over a 4 hour period. It is unclear if lithium carbonate can cause cancer, changes in genes, or fertility issues. However, studies in rats and mice suggest that taking lithium carbonate daily may have negative effects on male reproductive organs, sperm production, and testosterone levels. Evidence is conflicting regarding the effects of taking lithium during the first trimester of pregnancy. Animal studies have shown it may be harmful to the fetus and fertility. If a pregnant woman
Eskalith Novel Uses: Which Conditions Have a Clinical Trial Featuring Eskalith?
Two active studies are assessing the potential of Eskalith in providing relief for Acute Coryza.Condition
Clinical Trials
Trial Phases
Bipolar Disorder
1 Actively Recruiting
Phase 4
Bipolar Disorder
0 Actively Recruiting
Acute Coryza
1 Actively Recruiting
Not Applicable
Eskalith Reviews: What are patients saying about Eskalith?
5Patient Review
5/31/2013 I've been taking lithium for awhile now and I've noticed that it's really evened out my mood swings. I'm generally much happier. However, there are some side effects like drowsiness, increased urination, and thirst but they're manageable considering how much better I feel overall.
5Patient Review
6/18/2011 My doctor raised my dosage from 450mg to 900mg and, while I experienced some severe digestive issues, it did help keep my episodes under control.
5Patient Review
11/12/2011 I'm very happy with the effects of this medication so far. It's only been two weeks, but I already feel a lot more stable and focused. The side effects have been minimal, which is great. Thankful to have found a medication that works for me!
5Patient Review
1/31/20115Patient Review
5/9/2016 I was on lithium for eighteen years to treat my bipolar disorder. Unfortunately, it caused my kidneys to fail. I spent three years on dialysis before finally receiving a kidney transplant. If you're considering taking this medication, please be aware of the rare but possible side effect of kidney failure.
4.7Patient Review
9/12/2017 I was having suicidal thoughts multiple times every day, and this medication has drastically reduced that. I'm now able to sleep better and have more energy overall. I've been on it for three months with no negative side effects so far.
4.3Patient Review
12/4/2011 I've only been on Lithium 300mg for a short while, and I would not recommend it to anyone. The side effects are numerous and very unpleasant.
4.3Patient Review
12/18/2011 Lithium has been a lifesaver for me. I've been on it for over 10 years, and it's helped me immensely. Bi-polar is something that I'll always have to deal with, but as long as I stay on my medication, I'm doing well. This drug saved my life and I will forever be grateful.
4Patient Review
3/11/2011 I was initially prescribed wellbutrin and lithium to combat my depression. Unfortunately, now I find that these depressions are more frequent and last longer than before. Does anyone have any suggestions?
3.3Patient Review
6/26/2015 I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder when I was 18. I took lithium for 18 years, and it eventually caused me to develop hypothyroidism and kidney failure. After three years in dialysis, I received a kidney transplant. If you're considering taking lithium for bipolar disorder, please look into alternative treatments. Although kidney failure is rare, it is a possibility. It's an awful thing to live with."
3Patient Review
6/26/2015 I have been feeling incredibly depressed since I started taking lithium. It's gotten to the point where I cry frequently and just generally feel awful all the time. Additionally, I've noticed some other issues like excessive saliva production, which may be exacerbating my problems. I'm going to talk to my doctor about getting off of this medication and finding something else that works better for me.
3Patient Review
3/2/2011 I've been able to function really well on lithium after a manic episode 8 years ago. So far, I haven't had any negative side effects!
3Patient Review
3/1/20112.7Patient Review
11/12/2012 I take this medication
2.7Patient Review
2/16/20111.7Patient Review
3/10/2014 Overall, this has been the easiest and most effective mood stabilizer that I've taken with the least amount of side effects. I have experienced hand tremors and lack of focus, but those are small prices to pay for living a life without the ups and downs of a roller coaster.
1Patient Review
9/22/2011 I have never been so stable. Yes it does destroy your stomach and must be monitored with lab work but in all its good. Now we are waiting for my thyroid to go wacko (yes another side effect.)
Patient Q&A Section about eskalith
These questions and answers are submitted by anonymous patients, and have not been verified by our internal team.Is Eskalith the same as lithium?
"Eskalith is the brand name for regular immediate release lithium carbonate. It is supplied in 300 mg capsules. Eskalith CR is a slow release version of lithium carbonate. It is supplied in 450 mg scored, breakable tablets."
Answered by AI
Is Eskalith a mood stabilizer?
"The mechanism by which lithium exerts its therapeutic effect in stabilizing mood is unknown. However, it is postulated to involve normalization of neurotransmitter function. This may be accomplished through regulation of inositol monophosphate metabolism, neurotransmitter receptor sensitivity, or second messenger function. In addition, lithium inhibits sodium transport in nerve and muscle cells and alters serotonin function. Lithium also has a direct inhibitory effect on adenosine triphosphatase activity. All of these mechanisms are postulated to be involved in its therapeutic effect."
Answered by AI
What is Eskalith prescribed for?
"ESKALITH is a medication used to treat manic episodes of manic-depressive illness. Maintenance therapy with ESKALITH can help prevent or reduce the intensity of future episodes in people with a history of mania."
Answered by AI
What drug class is Eskalith?
"Eskalith is a drug that is used to treat bipolar disorder."
Answered by AI