Posted by Ritch on November 26, 2002, at 20:52:47
In reply to Re: lithium weight gain » JonW, posted by JohnX2 on November 26, 2002, at 16:55:45
> > >
> > > I'm trying to figure out if the weight gain I
> > > am experiencing is from Lithium.
> > >
> > > Is this a very common side effect of lithium?
> >
> > Some one I know is on a complex "cocktail" and ballooned up once lithium was added. I understand weight gain to be a fairly common side-effect. Lithium can cause hypo-thyroidism which can be associated with weight gain. As a layperson, I wonder if Synthroid would be helpful? Who knows, the cause of the weight gain probably isn't from hypo-thyroidism, but the effect on thyroid function sure can't help matters. Just some thoughts...
> >
> > Jon
>
> I don't even think the lithium does squat for me. It doesn't do jack for manic symptoms (it never got to a high blood level) and I don't think it helps depression. Maybe it has some neuroprotective effects. I seem to be on it for the sake of being on it. I can't sort out if the
> weight gain is the Lithium or Serzone.
>
> Thanks
>
>
Hi John, my theory on the weight gain issue with mood stabilizers is.. if you quickly feel a "water-retention, edema-like thing" situation with either Lithium or Depakote, then it is definitely the med that is the *cause*. If the weight gain happens much later while being on it, I suspect that it has to do with reduced hyperkinetic calorie-burning activiites such as incessant pacing and fidgeting. Maybe it is time for some thyroid blood levels and maybe some T3/T4 augmentation?
poster:Ritch
thread:129424
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021122/msgs/129491.html