Most meds should be taken with something in the stomach,there are ones that will say not to,so it is best to confirm this.
I think the formulations may also make a difference, my brother takes capsules, for over 30yrs.
I had elected to use it a few years ago, it was given to me under Lithobid, like a coated tablet form, I had no problems. Just that I went on to Lamictal, instead of Lithium for my need had more to do with the depressive and not mania. It's been good for me. Now, as I think of it, my pdoc may have said he preferred using Lithobid (caplet) vs the one like my brother uses, with patients due to less complaints of nausea when starting on the med.
Everyone, may have different or next to no side effects, so it is always best when starting a med, especially one that requires gradual titration to be in touch with the prescribing physician, keeping him or her up on how you are doing with the med. It's good to do this,so that a dose up or down or a change can be made, helping to prevent further problems.
My brother also doesn't use Lithobid because that tends to be more expensive and he doesn't have a great prescription plan with his job. Fortunately, I have a good one, through my husband's job (he pays dearly every month for) so that helps us with having more options on brands vs cost.
I wish everyone lots of luck and patience with taking meds new to you.
Take care,
DE

BTW
Larry Hoover is terrific with proper info. on meds., it's one of his expertise.
Larry, you are terrific!! Hear that, Larry?