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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Why Is Lithium Prescribed For Bipolar Disorder While Suffering From Hypothyroidism?

a doctor (psychiatrists) after extensive pre screening diagnosis put my 33 year old daughter on a low dose of Lithium to treat bipolar (as diagnosed). She was in hospital with a Kidney infection, dehydration, weight loss, low sodium, crying and depression as a result of her previous doctors having her on Lexapro. Lexapro is OUT now its Lithium. My concern is she has a many years long confirmed (by blood tests) hypothyroidism. Its withing the borderline range of hypothyroid but nonetheless. Hypothyroidism is on the list of contraindicated for Lithium. Also given the fact her recent Kidney ailment why lithium?
Mon, 30 Jul 2018
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service.
I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

I feel lithium is last option for a person with bipolar disorder along with hypothyroidism and kidney ailment.

There is possibility that her doctor was either not aware of her medical conditions or she may have another contraindications for other mood stabilisers such as Sodium Valproate or Carbamazepine.

Hope I have answered your query.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
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Why Is Lithium Prescribed For Bipolar Disorder While Suffering From Hypothyroidism?

Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. I feel lithium is last option for a person with bipolar disorder along with hypothyroidism and kidney ailment. There is possibility that her doctor was either not aware of her medical conditions or she may have another contraindications for other mood stabilisers such as Sodium Valproate or Carbamazepine. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.