Mixing Lithium & Alcohol | Effects & Dangers

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Lithium (the brand name for lithium carbonate) is a mood stabilizer used to treat manic episodes in those with bipolar disorder, depression, or schizophrenia. 

Lithium has common side effects that, when combined with the effects of alcohol, can increase or worsen. The sedative effect that takes place with Lithium and alcohol can be life-threatening when combined.   

Lithium

Lithium is part of a class of medications known as antimanic agents that focus on treating affective disorders (bipolar disorder, depression, and other mood disorders). Lithium does not belong to the class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

In addition to this, Lithium is also separate from benzodiazepines and antipsychotic medications (such as Seroquel). Lithium helps treat mood disorders including schizophrenia and other mental illnesses. 

Lithium Side Effects

The side effects of Lithium may include:

• stomach pain
• restlessness
• muscle pain
• hand tremors
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• weight loss or gain
• loss of appetite
• itching
• increased urination
• dry mouth

Lithium Toxicity

It’s important that a person pays attention to their levels of Lithium as Lithium toxicity can occur due to dehydration and low sodium diets. Symptoms of lithium toxicity can include:

• severe vomiting
• vision changes
• confusion
• severe hand tremors
• severe nausea

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek help immediately.  

Those who take Lithium long-term may develop hypothyroidism. This occurs when there are low levels of the thyroid hormone. 

Effects Of Alcohol

Excessive alcohol use can lead to a number of serious health concerns such as:

• high blood pressure
• cirrhosis
• pancreatitis
• cognitive impairment
• stroke
• cancer
• weakened immune system

Alcohol addiction and a high amount of alcohol consumption may cause short-term and long-term health, family, and work problems. 

Drinking Alcohol On Lithium

Not only does alcohol negatively affect the body in a variety of ways, but it can also cause more health concerns when combined with Lithium. 

Those who drink alcohol and partake in substance abuse by using too much Lithium may experience severe symptoms which require treatment or hospitalization.

Dangers Of Mixing Alcohol & Lithium

Both Lithium and alcohol target the central nervous system (CNS). Those who combine Lithium with their alcohol abuse may experience an increase in sedation which can have negative effects on one’s health. 

Mental Health Issues

Drinking alcohol with Lithium can worsen your condition by causing more depression and other mental health concerns. 

Severe Impairment

When severe impairment occurs, you can experience side effects such as:

• muscle weakness
• loss of coordination
• memory problems
• black outs
• alcohol poisoning
• increased risk of suicide
• ​violence
• engaging in risky activities
• problems with kidney function

On top of this, alcohol can interfere with your Lithium levels which poses a problem to your mental and physical health. 

Treating Mental Health Disorders & Addiction

Mental health conditions and mood disorders likely involve episodes of mania and depression. Bipolar disorder, for example, likely requires long-term treatment which means it’s always important to take the correct dose of lithium that your doctor has prescribed to you. 

If you believe you are struggling with mental health issues, contact your healthcare provider right away to learn more health information. Your doctor may prescribe a specific amount of Lithium, an antidepressant, or other medication that can help you. 

Treating Substance Use Disorder

If you struggle with mental health issues along with alcohol abuse or alcohol use disorder, dual diagnosis treatment programs are available.

Dual diagnosis treatment programs, available on both an inpatient and outpatient basis, treat both mental and addiction at the same time.

To learn about our treatment options, please contact us today.