A member asked:

What is the pharmacological mechanism of action of lithium carbonate when used to treat bipolar disorder?

3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Hamsa Jayaraj answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

Enhances serotonin.: The exact mechanism is not known, but proably by enhancing serotonin. Lithium is the best mood stabilizer in spite of the many new mood stabilizers. Lithium level must be monitored for the side effects.Google for the side effects of lithium.

Answered 2/22/2013

5.3k views

Thank
Dr. John Moranville answered

Specializes in Psychiatry

Unknown: The exact mechanism is not fully understood. It effects sodium transport in nerve cells and may have effects on several neurotransmitters, most notably glutamate and serotonin. It is the most effective agent for mood stability, but may have effects on thyroid and kidneys after many years of continuous use.

Answered 9/10/2014

5.3k views

Thank

Related Questions

A member asked:

I'm taking lithium carbonate and trifluoperazine. Both needed for bipolar?

4 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

A member asked:

What are the side effects of lithium carbonate on a bipolar guy?

A doctor has provided 1 answer

A member asked:

Is bipolar treatable? does the treatment make bipolar worse?

10 doctors weighed in across 2 answers