Eskalith (Lithium) for Depression

Overview

Eskalith is a prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat manic episodes in people with bipolar disorder. Eskalith is sometimes prescribed for people with major depressive disorder when antidepressants have failed. Since the FDA has not approved Eskalith specifically for this usage, it is considered “off-label.” Eskalith is also known by its drug name, Lithium. Eskalith is an antimanic medication. In cases of depression, Eskalith works as a mood stabilizer. Eskalith is believed to work by changing the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain.

How do I take it?

Eskalith is generally taken once or twice a day. Eskalith comes in tablet and capsule forms.

Side effects

The FDA-approved label for Eskalith lists common side effects including weakness, loss of coordination, tremors, altered sense of taste, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, loss of appetite, weight gain, increased thirst and urination, itching, dry or thinning hair, and decreased interest in sex. Rare but serious side effects listed for Eskalith include kidney problems.

For more details about this treatment, visit:

Eskalith – RxList