CALL TOLL FREE:
FAX  TOLL  FREE:
1.866.930.3784
5:30 AM - 8:00 PM (M-F)
7:00 AM - 3:30 PM (S/S)

Lithium Carbonate (Lithium Carbonate)

Type
Product
Manufacturer
Country
Dosage
Qty-Price (USD)
There is no brand product of Lithium Carbonate.

Generic Equivalent of Lithium Carbonate
Type
Product
Manufacturer
Country
Dosage
Qty-Price (USD)
Type: drug type
Product: Lithium Carbonate Capsule
Manufacturer: Generic
Country: Canada
Dosage: 150 mg
Qty-Price (USD):
Type: drug type
Product: Lithium Carbonate Capsule (ON BACKORDER)
Manufacturer: Generic
Country: Canada
Dosage: 300 mg
Qty-Price (USD):
Type: drug type
Product: Lithium Carbonate Sustained Release Tablet
Manufacturer: Generic
Country: Canada
Dosage: 300 mg
Qty-Price (USD):

Lithium Carbonate Information

portrait medically reviewed by Dr. HaVy Ngo, Pharmacist on May 27, 2025.

Lithium Carbonate at CanadaPharmacyOnline

Lithium Carbonate, manufactured by Bausch Health, is available in many countries, including Canada.

Generic lithium carbonate is sourced from manufacturers that meet applicable regulatory standards for safety, efficacy, and quality. The specific manufacturer of your dispensed medication may vary.

Important Information about Generic Lithium Carbonate:

Generic lithium carbonate contains the same active ingredient as brand-name lithium medications and is required to meet the same safety, effectiveness, and quality standards. This means it is designed to work in the same way as brand-name lithium products. However, the FDA advises using only the brand of lithium your doctor prescribes, as different brands may not work the same way. Individual responses to any medication can vary. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about using generic lithium carbonate.

For more information about generic drug approval and bioequivalence, please visit Access to Generic Drugs in Canada | Canada.ca.

Dosage:

Lithium Carbonate is available in the following strengths and formats (at this pharmacy):
• Lithium Carbonate 150 mg capsules
• Lithium Carbonate 600 mg capsules
• Generic lithium carbonate 150 mg capsules
• Generic lithium carbonate 300 mg sustained-release tablets

Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose based on your individual needs and medical conditions.

Usage:

Lithium is a prescription medication used to treat and prevent episodes of mania (frenzied, abnormally excited mood) in people with bipolar disorder (manic-depressive disorder). It is also used daily to reduce the frequency and severity of manic episodes. While primarily used for bipolar disorder, lithium may also be used, sometimes off-label or as an adjunct therapy, for conditions such as depression (particularly treatment-resistant depression), schizoaffective disorder, and certain impulse control disorders, as determined by a healthcare professional.

For more information, refer to the official FDA Prescribing Information: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/017812s028,018421s027lbl.pdf

Mechanism of Action:
The exact way lithium carbonate works is not fully understood. However, it is known to affect the flow of sodium through nerve and muscle cells in the body. Sodium plays a role in nerve excitation or mania. Lithium is thought to stabilize mood by affecting neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the brain), such as serotonin and dopamine, and by affecting intracellular signalling pathways. It may also influence the metabolism of certain neurotransmitters and alter intracellular signalling via second messenger systems. By stabilizing mood, lithium helps individuals regain control over their emotions and improve their ability to manage daily challenges. Maintaining a consistent amount of lithium in the blood is crucial for its effectiveness.

Take lithium carbonate exactly as your doctor prescribes, following the instructions on the Consumer Medicine Information | medsafe.govt.nz. Consult your doctor for personalized guidance and safe use. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor lithium levels and ensure they stay within the therapeutic range.

The information below summarizes some, but not all, potential side effects, risks, and interactions. Before taking lithium carbonate, it is essential to discuss all possible side effects, risks, and interactions with your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects:

The information below is a partial list of side effects; individual reactions can vary. Before starting lithium carbonate, it is crucial to discuss potential side effects and risks with your doctor or pharmacist.

Common side effects – These are examples of some common side effects of lithium carbonate, but others are possible. Contact your doctor promptly if any side effects are persistent, worsening, or concerning or if you experience any other concerning symptoms.
• Acne, mild skin rash
• Changes in taste, metallic taste in the mouth
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Frequent urination
• Gastrointestinal upset
• Increased thirst
• Mild nausea or diarrhea
• Mildly shaking hands (fine tremor)
• Thinning hair
• Tiredness
• Weight gain

Serious or rare side effects – Stop taking lithium carbonate and seek immediate medical attention right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:
• Cardiac abnormalities (e.g., sinus node dysfunction)
• Confusion, poor memory, or lack of awareness
• Fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse
• Hallucinations
• Hypothyroidism (low thyroid function, signs may include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance)
• Kidney damage
• Loss of coordination
• Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus (excessive urination and thirst that do not respond to reduced fluid intake)
• Muscle twitching or weakness
• Seizures
• Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Severe tiredness or dizziness
• Signs of lithium toxicity (e.g., increased tremor, ataxia (loss of coordination), slurred speech, confusion, lethargy, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle twitching, nystagmus, convulsions, stupor, coma, cardiac arrhythmias)
• Slurred speech
• Swelling of the feet or ankles
• Trouble walking
• Troubled breathing
• Vision problems

Contraindications:

This is not an exhaustive list of contraindications. It is crucial to discuss all your medical conditions, past and present, and all medications you are taking with your doctor or pharmacist before starting lithium carbonate.

Lithium carbonate should not be used if:
• You are allergic to lithium or any of its ingredients.
• You have dehydration, severe.
• You have heart or blood vessel disease.
• You have hyponatremia (low sodium in the blood).
• You have kidney disease, severe.
• You have the genetic disorder Brugada syndrome or a family history of Brugada syndrome.
• You have muscle weakness, severe.
• You have a severely weakened physical condition.
• You are pregnant.
• You are breastfeeding.

Tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, past and present, before starting lithium carbonate. This is crucial because certain conditions can affect whether lithium is right for you. These conditions may include, but are not limited to:
• Adrenal gland problems
• Any condition that may lead to dehydration (e.g., fever, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating)
• Any significant changes in your diet, especially sodium intake
• Brain damage
• Epilepsy or other seizure disorders
• Heart problems, including arrhythmias or heart rhythm disorders
• High blood pressure
• Kidney problems
• Low potassium levels
• Parkinson’s disease
• Psoriasis
• Thyroid problems

Do not stop this medication unless directed by your doctor. Stopping lithium suddenly can worsen your condition. Regular monitoring of blood lithium levels, thyroid function (TSH), and kidney function (creatinine, GFR) is essential to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Anesthesia and Surgery:
Inform your doctor or surgeon that you are taking Lithium Carbonate before any surgery, including dental surgery. Lithium can affect how your body responds to anesthesia and may require special management or temporary discontinuation around the time of surgery.

Dizziness and Drowsiness:
Lithium carbonate may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you understand how it affects you.

Drug Interactions:

Before taking lithium carbonate, it is essential to discuss all potential risks and interactions with your doctor or pharmacist. For complete and up-to-date information, refer to the prescribing information | Boehringer Ingelheim: https://docs.boehringer-ingelheim.com/Prescribing%20Information/PIs/Roxane/Lithium/Lithium%20Carbonate%20Tablets%20Capsules%20Oral%20Solution.pdf

Provide your doctor with a complete list of all your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Lithium carbonate can interact with several medications, including (but not limited to) angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists (ARBs), certain antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs), antipsychotics, carbamazepine, calcium channel blockers, diuretics (especially thiazide diuretics), haloperidol, iodides, metronidazole, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), phenothiazines, phenytoin, sodium bicarbonate, theophylline, and topiramate.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

Lithium can harm an unborn baby if taken during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. It should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the significant risks and under strict medical supervision. Lithium passes into breast milk and can harm a nursing infant. Do not breastfeed while taking lithium. Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding must discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lithium Carbonate at Canada Pharmacy Online:

Why is lithium carbonate more affordable in Canada than in the United States?

Prescription drug prices, including lithium carbonate, are generally lower in Canada than in the US due to a combination of factors, primarily government price regulations, differing market dynamics, and other economic considerations. In Canada, provincial and federal governments negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical companies, which often results in lower costs compared to the US, where market forces play a more significant role. For more information, see the FAQs on Prescription Drug Importation from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF): https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/faqs-on-prescription-drug-importation/

Can I take lithium carbonate with food?

Lithium carbonate is often taken with or after meals to lessen stomach upset. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.

Can I crush or chew lithium carbonate tablets or capsules?

Extended-release lithium tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. For other formulations, follow your doctor’s or pharmacist’s instructions. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules.

Will lithium carbonate cure my bipolar disorder?

Lithium helps to manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder and reduce the frequency and severity of mood episodes, but it is not a cure. It is a long-term treatment to help stabilize mood. Consult your doctor for appropriate management of your condition.

How quickly does lithium carbonate start working?

It may take 1 to 3 weeks or longer to feel the full benefit of lithium carbonate. Continue to take it even if you feel well.

What should I do if I miss a dose of lithium carbonate?

If you miss a dose of lithium carbonate, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How much is the shipping?

Our shipping fee is a flat rate of $10.00 per order. Our pharmacy focuses on getting you the lowest prices on high quality products.

How do I order from your pharmacy?

Ordering from us is very simple. You can purchase online or call Customer Service at 1866.920.3784; for more information or to learn about the ordering process, visit our How to Order page.

Blog Posts:

Increasing Symptoms of Mental Illness During The Holidays

Latest News:

Parental Mental Illness Raises Risk of Childhood Psychopathology (article published on May 22, 2025)

Similar Drugs in the category of Psychiatric Medication:

   Latuda    Abilify    Seroquel    Saphris    Rexulti

The information on this page is sourced from independent third parties contracted by CanadaPharmacyOnline. While we cannot guarantee its medical accuracy, we strongly recommend consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding medications or medical conditions.

Reviews From Real Customers
Drug Categories


Top Products

Prescriptions Dispensed from Canada are Dispensed by Candrug Pharmacy #18985. 202A 8322-130th Street, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada V3W 8J9, 604-543-8711. Pharmacy Manager: Carol Hou.
This pharmacy is duly licensed in the province of British Columbia, Canada by the College of Pharmacists of BC. If you have any questions or concerns you can contact the college at: 200-1765 West 8th Ave Vancouver, BC V6J 5C6 Canada.
All prices are in US dollars.
© Copyright 2006 - 2025 Canada Pharmacy Online. All Rights Reserved.