Optimizing lithium treatment.

The purpose of this article is to discuss treatment of side effects that can occur during lithium therapy. Side effects from lithium are common but generally benign. For this article, I have divided the side effects into those that occur early, those that are late appearing, side effects related to drug interactions, and lithium toxicity. Side effects can decrease compliance. Lithium is a very effective drug for the stabilization of mood disorder in bipolar patients. Since side effects can affect compliance, recognition and treatment of early and late-appearing side effects are important aspects of lithium pharmacotherapy.