Duralith (Lithium Carbonate) is a prescription medication used to treat manic-depressive illness (bipolar disorder). Typical symptoms of Mania include pressure of speech, motor hyperactivity, reduced need for sleep, flight of ideas, grandiosity or poor judgment, aggressiveness, and possibly hostility. The active ingredient in Duralith is Lithium Carbonate. Lithium carbonate belongs to the class of medications called mood stabilizers. It stabilizes the mood and reduces extremes in behavior by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain. It may take 1 to 3 weeks before the positive effects of this drug are seen.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Duralith from Canada also called Carbolith manufactured by Bausch Health in the strength of 150 mg and 600 mg capsules. The generic Lithium Carbonate is not available.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Duralith. The most common side effects of Duralith may include the following:
• Drowsiness;
• Increased thirst;
• Increased frequency of urinating;
• Weight gain
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Hallucination;
• Loss of coordination or falling while walking;
• Severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea;
• Slurred speech;
• Trouble speaking
These are not all of Duralith's side effects. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Duralith if you are allergic to Lithium-containing medication or any ingredient in Duralith. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Have difficulty with urination;
• Have heart problems (such as Brugada syndrome or family history of sudden unexplained death before 45 years old);
• Have hypothyroidism;
• Have kidney disease;
• Have liver disease;
• Have seizure
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Duralith and other medicines, like dronedarone, thioridazine, and diuretics such as furosemide. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is recommended not to become pregnant while using Lithium. Lithium may harm an unborn baby. Lithium is excreted in human milk. Nursing mothers should not use Duralith while breastfeeding their babies. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding. Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes. Duralith is a tablet that should be taken regularly. It is taken orally, usually 3 to 4 times daily for adults and 2 to 3 times daily for children. Take Lithium with meals to reduce stomach pain that may occur. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages while treating bipolar with Duralith. Do not drive or do activities that require full alert immediately after taking Duralith. It is essential to have the right amount of Lithium in your body. Your doctor may request regular follow-up to monitor you closely during treatment. Do not miss any of your medical and lab appointments while taking Lithium. Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse. It may take 1 to 3 weeks to notice improvement in your condition. Do not freeze. Keep out of the reach of children.