Lithium
Lithium is a mood-stabilizing medication primarily used to treat bipolar disorder. It helps reduce the frequency and severity of manic episodes and can help prevent depressive episodes. It is one of the oldest and most extensively studied treatments for mood disorders.
Lithium is a mood stabilizer used to treat and prevent manic and depressive episodes in bipolar disorder.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N05AN01
- RxNorm
- 6448
- Generic
- Lithium
- Class
- atc-n05
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Lithium is FDA-approved for treatment of acute manic and mixed episodes in bipolar I disorder, maintenance treatment to prevent relapse, and as augmentation therapy in major depressive disorder. It may also be used off-label for aggression, schizophrenia adjunctive therapy, and certain headache disorders.
The exact mechanism of action is unknown. Lithium is believed to work by modulating neurotransmitter systems including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, as well as affecting intracellular signaling pathways and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). These effects help stabilize mood and reduce neuronal excitability associated with mania.
Lithium has a narrow therapeutic index requiring regular blood monitoring of serum levels. Common side effects include tremor, weight gain, and thyroid/renal function changes. It requires adequate hydration and avoid hyponatremia. Lithium is a known teratogen (Category D) and should be used cautiously in pregnancy. Many drug interactions exist, particularly with NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, and diuretics which can increase lithium levels.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy