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Contraceptive Pills and Lithium

Written by: Fabio Piccini, doctor and Jungian psychotherapist, in charge of the "Centre for Eating Disorders Therapy" at the "Malatesta Novello" Clinic in Cesena. Works privately in Rimini and Chiavari. E-mail:
First version: 22 Jul 2008. Latest version: 29 Jul 2008.

Abstract:

Could I use the pill while taking a lithium therapy?

Question:

Could I use the pill while taking a lithium therapy?

Answer:

You'd better do it.

I mean that, besides its efficacy on mood control, lithium carbonate also has some side effects. Among them, lithium carbonate is thought to be toxic for the foetus. And it could also cause premature abortions if taken while pregnant.

Again, a pregnancy could trigger a post-partum depression that could worsen your present disease.

On the other hand, lithium carbonate won't give you any problems regarding fertility. So you could decide to get pregnant after discontinuing lithium therapy with no risk for you or for your baby.

More Information
Risk for weight gain with Litium Articles about psychiatric prescription drugs Articles about the treatment of depression Buspirone (Buspar) for Anxiety Disorders
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