I was on Lithium for about 3 years or so. I gained a lot of weight and ended up with metabolic Syndrome. ( high bp, high cholesterol and borderline diabetes). This can be life threatening. Although I was so thankful to have come off it, It wasn't replaced with anything else. I did well for about 6 months but the symptoms have come back. Right now I'm just on Lamotragine, which is used as a mood stabilizer, I love it, and Seroquel. I've been in a mixed episode but it's getting better. I see my pdoc today and it will be decided if I'll go on something else.

My opinion only, Lithium may be effective but is poison. Be thankful you're off it but I hope it's replaced if required