Lithium is one of the chemical elements that has taken on the most importance in recent years, and every day there seems to be more uses for this diamagnetic alkaline metal, which despite being highly reactive, is used more and more frequently. for various purposes.
Within the pharmaceutical industry it is usually used for the treatment of some mental disorders, as an effective psychotropic drug for the treatment of symptoms associated with bipolar disorder. But its uses are not only limited to this psychopathology, as it is also used in other pathologies of the mood.
What is lithium?
As we have already mentioned, lithium is one of the organic compounds found on earth, especially in salt flats or in areas of volcanic activity.
It usually has a silver color that can even appear white. This metal is usually soft to the touch and oxidizes very quickly in the presence of water and air. It is known by its symbol Lee in the periodic table, where its diamagnetic and alkaline qualities are also indicated.
It is a highly reactive element and is potentially explosive and flammable, so its handling must be carried out with the strictest care. Despite this, it is usually used for many things, such as the construction industry, batteries, aeronautics, naval and even as a treatment for pathologies of emotional/mental origin.
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Uses of lithium
According to Stahl (2002), lithium carbonate is used in mental health for its effects in that area. It is known to have powerful stabilizing effects, which help maintain mood balance in patients taking lithium salts.
It has been proven to be highly effective in the treatment of patients with bipolar disorders, helping to reduce symptoms in both manic and depressive phases. It is even usually part of the treatments for other pathologies related to the mood.
As an antimanic agent, lithium is used in the prevention of manic episodes, frequently used in patients with manic-depressive or bipolar disorder, as we have mentioned. It is also used in some cases of schizophrenia and, to a lesser extent, for the treatment of depression.
Other uses of lithium
In addition to being used as a psychotropic drug, lithium is widely used for the production of lubricant products that will be exposed to very high temperatures. It also has drying properties that allow it to absorb moisture in spaces.
It is used to extract carbon dioxide, which is why it is also used as a purifier in places such as submarines and naval bases, and together with other elements it produces high-strength alloys that are currently used in the aeronautical industry.
Another reason why it has become very popular is that it is used to create electric batteries, which have proven to be highly functional and capable of lasting much longer.
Lithium Side Effects
Lithium consumption must be carried out under strict medical supervision, following the instructions to the letter. If you have any type of side effects, it is important to consult with a specialist about it.
Lithium consumption can produce side effects such as: feeling mild thirst, tremors in the hands, general agitation, changes in salivation: a lot of saliva or feeling of dry mouth, loss or weakness of hair and nails, appearance of acne, paleness, inflammation of the lips, rash or itching.
Joint pain and extreme sensitivity to cold and in some cases depression may occur. Stomach discomforts such as: pain, constipation, digestion difficulties, flatulence, weight changes, loss of appetite are also common, and some patients have even reported changes in the taste of food.
It is of great importance to consult your doctor if you experience symptoms such as unusual movements that cannot be controlled, which may be jerky and slow, if there is excessive thirst and a lot of urination. Also in cases of fainting, fainting or unusual weakness and/or tiredness.
Likewise, go to the doctor if you experience lightheadedness, dizziness, convulsions, difficulty breathing, cardiac arrhythmias, tachycardia, chest tightness, convulsions, inflammation of the lower limbs, cold and painful hands and feet.
Pay close attention to the appearance of headaches, hearing banging noises, hallucinations or strabismus. And in the following cases it is imperative to immediately see a doctor and stop taking lithium: if there are uncontrollable tremors, loss of coordination, stiffness or very marked weakness in any part of the body.
Likewise, go to a professional if there is vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, ringing in the ears, vertigo, if there is any difficulty speaking or if blurred vision is experienced.
References: Stahl, S. M. (2002). Essential psychopharmacology. Neuroscientific bases and clinical applications. Barcelona: Ariel.