Hi All!

SAS - How long have you been taking the lithium? The symptoms that you are describing sound like "start-up" side effects. The G.I. upset usually does fade by 3 to 4 weeks. Still, you may need to take the lithium with food to minimize the nausea.

Are you drinking enough water; one has to keep well hydrated so that the lithium doesn't concentrate in your body.

Are you taking the regular lithium carbonate capsules/tablets or are you taking the long-acting lithium? If the G.I. problems persist, a different dosage form may be in order. There is a lithium citrate formulation in the U.S., I believe (it was discontinued in Canada) that is supposed to be easier on the tummy, but it is more expensive.

It is best to ride out the nausea (for 2 to 4 weeks) or ask your doc if he/she thinks that if raising the dose more slowly would help minimize our discomfort.

Hope this helps some - Cam