Quote:
Originally Posted by hartbroken
I have bipolar and have been treated with Lithium for 15 years. Well, yesterday I found out I have stage 3 kidney failure. My psychiatrist did a routine blood test and discovered it. He said he'd have me see my regular doctor tomorrow, and discuss the solution, since I am also diabetic it complicates everything. My psychiatrist said he'll probably have to take me off of Lithium because my lithium levels are increasing in my blood stream.
I'm frightened and don't know exactly what to think next. I'll follow doctors' orders, but I am very frightened about the results.
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i was on 450mg. daily of lithium for 35 years which was enough to keep my hypomania in check. throughout those years, i had thyroid issues somewhat resolved by taking meds; then had parathyroids removed and then started having some kidney issues. i've had some great drs. in the past who have told me lithium has been the main contributor to these other health issues. i finally decided to get off lithium and have not replaced it w/another mood stabilizer tho i take 1/2 klonopin daily for anxiety and some 1/2 seroquel nightly so i can sleep.
there have been occasions where i had to pee in a bottle for 24 hrs. to check my kidneys but since i'm off lithium have not been rechecked…do know i don't pee as frequently and surprisingly, the anger which i would experience daily when i would just wake up, is no longer there.
i'd suggest that you do your own research and get other dr. opinions. lithium did work for me for many years…but it had consequences.