Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking lithium and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

There are different brands and forms of this medication available. They may not have the same effects. Do not change brands or forms without asking your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 3 to 4 times daily for adults and 2 to 3 times daily for children. Take lithium with or right after meals to lessen stomach upset. Drink 8 to 12 glasses (8 ounces/240 milliliters each) of water or other fluid each day, and eat a healthy diet with normal amounts of salt (sodium) as directed by your doctor or dietician while taking this medication. Large changes in the amount of salt in your diet may change your lithium blood levels. Do not change the amount of salt in your diet unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, lithium blood levels, and response to treatment. Children's dosage is also based on weight. For the best effect, take this medication regularly at evenly spaced times. To help you remember, take this medication at the same times every day.

If you are taking the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

This medication must be taken exactly as prescribed. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this drug without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse. It may take 1 to 3 weeks to notice improvement in your condition.