[Shakti]

This has almost surely been discussed and probably a lot, but forgive me for not searching. I just don't have the energy. A question. I'm terrified of weight gain that is out of my control. I'm 5'4" and 114 lbs and I'd like it to stay that way. I eat healthy food, drink only water (and lots of it...even gave up caffeine), do yoga daily, and exercise regularly (except when just too depressed, but my partner usually drags me out for at least a hike). Is weight gain on this drug unavoidable? Has everyone here who has been on it gained weight? A lot of it?
Has anyone remained at the same weight or been able to manage it? I just don't see what I could do to lose weight if I started piling it on for no reason.

Thanks all. I just really want to try Lithium, but I fear this side effect and would like anecdotal info before waltzing in and asking for it.

Lithium has never been a weight gainer for me (other things have though).

[lostandscared54]

I have not gained weight on lithium, I have actually been able to lose weight.

[katertot]

i started taking it 5 weeks ago and i've lost weight. it does make you INCREDIBLY thirsty, though, since it's a salt. also, i'm a vegetarian, so when i get cravings, i eat raw, whole foods. that really keeps the weight off, i think.

[Shakti]

I'm vegan and probably about 30% raw and I drink about a gallon of distilled water a day, so hopefully that will help.

I'm feeling a little better about this. I wish I didn't have body issues. I'd never be as hard (or unrealistic) on anyone else as I am on myself.

[Amazonmom]

I have been on Lithium for 16 months and have managed to lose weight while on it.

[katertot]

it was a really hard choice for me, too, since i've struggled with anorexia in the past, but it's really been a lifesaver for me thus far.

[BlackPup]

the first time I went on lithium I gained about 18 kg (46lb). I went off and lost about 25 kg (64 lb). I stayed off it for a while but I was so suicidal that I decided to go back on it despite the weight gain (pretty crazy choice!!!) in the year since i have been back on it I have gained 10kg (25lb) and my weight is now fairly stable and only 3 kg greater than my starting weight.
the difference this time is due to monitoring thyroid function (Li can cause hypothyrodism - weight gain)
drinking only water - Li increases thirst - lots of calories if you drink soft drink/fruit juice
being careful about portion size - sometimes I used to continue feeling hungry even after eating.
I think if you are aware of the potential problem you are much less likely to gain weight, and it is easier to not gain it in the first place than to lose it!!!!!