Does Lithium Cause Headaches?

Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School

Does Lithium Cause Headaches?

Question:

Can lithium cause daily headaches? I'm taking lithium for mood disorder but I'm getting headaches every day, plus some upset stomach

Answer:

Lithium generally does not cause headaches. In fact, lithium is thought to be helpful for some types of headaches. So it is unlikely that lithium by itself is causing daily headaches.

Lithium does, however, interact with many other medications, so it is possible that an interaction between lithium and another medication might contribute to headaches. To check for this possibility see your doctor and bring along all the medications you take, including over-the-counter medications.

Lithium is known to cause a wide variety of side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, and thyroid disorders. Your upset stomach may well be related to lithium.

Because lithium doses and levels need to be carefully monitored, you should not stop or change your lithium without talking to your doctor. If the headaches continue talk to your doctor about whether any further evaluation is needed.

Print Email Twitter Facebook MySpace AIM More

Last updated:	July 20, 2009

Medical content reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School. Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, Use of Content Agreement and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.