freefall,
I was prescribed lithium, and although I am not taking it now, I did at one time. My experience with the side effects was very negative, so I decided to get off it.
Side effects I had:
Body shaking/trembling
Hand tremors ( I too would have a hard time drinking from a cup, before I got even close to bring it to my mouth, I would spill it all over me)
Facial twitching
Involuntary muscle movements (my legs would give out beneath me and I would fall)
Constipation
Hair drying out and falling out
Gaining a lot of weight
If these are your experiences as well, you have to assess your symptoms with your care provider and discuss the severity of the side effects and how they make you feel. Sometimes the costs outweigh the benefits.
You said you're on mg. Well, I don't think it has to do much with dosage, but it's possible because everyone reacts differently on this medication, but, I was on mg of Lithium and I had the same side effects you listed. So, I am not 100% sure on what you should do, but if the side effects are becoming a serious worry or a terrible inconvenience, then I would suggest lowering the dosage. Also, and most importantly, talk with your health care provider. Be assertive and don't be ignored. I told my doctor that I needed a reduction on the amount of meds I was taking, and they arrogantly told me thats not what I needed and that I will stay on the meds. That is ridiculous!! Only you, the client/consumer, if you will, can dictate the details of their treatment plan. Mental health specialists are there to help guide you and make suggestions for treatment, not dictate or tell you what treatment to go with.
Fallabe12
