Does Lithium Cause Weight Gain?

Posted on Thu, 6 Nov 2014

Question: will my weight come off if i get off lithium?

Answered by Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (13 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
yes

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Weight gain is known side effect of lithium. If the weight gain is more Because of its use you will definitely shed those extra kilos within 30 days of discontinuation of drugs.

Let me know if you have more queries.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju

Follow up: Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (59 minutes later)

will my thyroid and my appetite return to normal if i get off lithium?

Answered by Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (26 hours later)

Brief Answer:
yes

Detailed Answer:
Lithium induced hypothyroidism is reversible after it is discontinued. Please follow doctor instructions to cut down weight further.

I think you should choose other alternative drugs instead of lithium if you need it for maintaining current problem. Lithium has narrow safety profile.

Hope my answer clarifies further.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Ashwin Bhandari