In 2023, over 2 million prescriptions for lithium were written in the US. If you're taking lithium to manage bipolar disorder or another mood condition, you're likely familiar with its benefits in stabilizing mood. However, one side effect that often raises concern is weight gain. While lithium is highly effective, it can lead to changes in metabolism, appetite, and fluid retention, all of which may contribute to unwanted pounds. In this blog, we'll dive into why weight gain happens with lithium, how it affects your body, and tips for managing it effectively.

What You Need to Know about Lithium and Weight Gain

What do I need to know before taking lithium?

Before you start taking lithium, it’s crucial to get a good grasp of its possible side effects. These can include weight gain, changes in thirst, and potential effects on your kidney function. Lithium is commonly prescribed for mood disorders, but it can influence various aspects of your health, so keeping an eye on things is really important. 

For example, you’ll need to have your kidney and thyroid function checked regularly to make sure everything is running smoothly. Even if you’re on a low dose of lithium, you might notice shifts in your appetite and metabolism, which could lead to some weight gain. It’s wise to have a chat with your doctor about any worries you have regarding weight changes before you kick off treatment. This way, you can tackle any side effects head-on and adjust your lifestyle if needed to help keep weight gain at bay. 

What are the negative symptoms of lithium?

Lithium is great for stabilizing mood, but it does come with a few potential side effects that can impact your everyday life. Common issues include weight gain, increased thirst, and hand tremors, and some folks might find these effects hit harder than others. The severity of these side effects can vary based on the dosage and how your body reacts to the medication.

Here are just a few of the negative symptoms of lithium: 

• Excessive thirst and urination: Lithium can cause your body to retain more fluid, resulting in constant thirst and more frequent urination.
• Tremors and nausea: Many individuals experience shaking hands or stomach discomfort, particularly at higher doses.
• Weight gain: Lithium affects appetite and metabolism, which can lead to an increase in body weight, even at lower doses.

Here are the rare, yet dangerous, side effects of taking lithium (and taking an improper dosage):

• Lithium toxicity: Can cause confusion, tremors, nausea, and seizures, and may be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
• Kidney damage: Prolonged use of lithium, especially at improper dosages, may lead to irreversible kidney damage.
• Thyroid problems: Lithium can interfere with thyroid function, potentially causing hypothyroidism, which may require long-term treatment.
• Severe dehydration: Lithium can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, leading to serious health issues.

Disclaimer: Always follow your doctor’s instructions and undergo regular monitoring when taking lithium to reduce the risk of these side effects. Do not lower or increase your dosage without direct supervision and approval from a licensed physician. 

What does lithium do to your body over time?

When used over a long period, lithium can build up in your system and affect your body in various ways. It might change how your body processes food and nutrients, which could slow down your metabolism and lead to weight gain. It also impacts thyroid function, making it even harder to manage your weight. That's why keeping an eye on your health is so important—catching these changes early can make a big difference. 

Long-term use of lithium can also put a strain on your kidneys, so regular blood tests and kidney function checks are essential. While the medication works to stabilize your mood, the physical changes it brings may require you to adjust your lifestyle, like managing your weight and staying active.

Does lithium cause belly fat?

Lithium can actually play a role in fat accumulation, especially around the stomach. This often happens because the medication can affect your appetite, making it easier to overeat. Plus, it can slow down your metabolism, which means your body burns fat more slowly. Some folks also deal with fluid retention, leading to a bloated feeling in the belly and making belly fat more noticeable.

A few things to know about Lithium and weight gain:

• Increased hunger: Lithium can make you feel hungrier, leading to overeating, which may contribute to belly fat.
• Fluid retention: Some individuals on lithium experience bloating, especially around the abdominal area.
• Slower metabolism: Lithium’s impact on metabolism can lead to fat storage around the belly over time.

Does lithium always cause weight gain?

Weight gain can be a common side effect of lithium, but it’s not something everyone experiences. Some folks might not notice any change in their weight, while others could see a significant increase, particularly with long-term use. How likely you are to gain weight can depend on various factors, including your metabolism, the dosage of lithium you’re taking, and any other health issues you might have. 

Even at a low dose, some people may still find themselves gaining weight, though the impact is usually less pronounced. It’s really important to have open conversations with your doctor about your specific risks and how to manage any side effects that pop up. If weight gain becomes a worry, your healthcare provider might tweak your treatment plan to help lessen those effects.

How often does lithium cause weight gain?

Weight gain is a common side effect of lithium, but it doesn't happen to everyone. In fact, it affects about 40-50% of those who take it. How often weight gain occurs can vary based on several factors, including the dosage, the length of time you've been on the medication, and your individual body chemistry. Some folks might notice just a little weight gain, while others could see more noticeable changes.

Here are factors that may contribute to the likelihood you’ll gain weight after using lithium: 

• Long-term use: The longer you take lithium, the more likely you are to experience weight gain.
• Individual factors: Your metabolism, lifestyle, and other medications may influence how much weight you gain.
• Dosage: Higher doses of lithium tend to lead to more noticeable weight gain, although lower doses can still cause changes in appetite and metabolism.

Find The Right Maryland Psychiatrist For You 

If you're seeking help with mental health issues, it's important to find a professional who understands your unique needs. A Maryland psychiatrist can offer specialized care for conditions like anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. By researching and finding the right Maryland Psychiatrist for you, you ensure you're getting the support, treatment, and guidance necessary to improve your well-being.

Mental Health Medication Management with Telapsychiatry

Medication management plays a crucial role in treating mental health issues. Through consistent monitoring and assessment of your medication's impact, we aim to tailor the best treatment strategy for you.

It's important to know that reaching out for help is perfectly okay, and there's no shame in using medication to improve mental health.

We're here to support you through your journey toward improved mental well-being. Call us at 888-903-5505 or schedule an appointment online.

Lithium and Weight Gain FAQs

Why does lithium make you gain weight?
Lithium is thought to cause weight gain due to its impact on metabolism and appetite. It can increase the body's storage of fat, particularly by altering thyroid function and affecting hunger hormones. Even at low doses of lithium, these changes can lead to significant weight gain over time.

How does lithium make you gain weight?
Lithium may lead to weight gain by causing fluid retention, which increases body mass. It also influences the brain's appetite regulation, often making people feel hungrier than usual. As a result, even with low-dose lithium, individuals may eat more and store extra calories as fat.

How much weight do you gain on lithium?
The amount of weight gain on lithium can vary, but studies suggest that patients can gain 5 to 10 pounds on average. Factors like dosage, duration, and individual metabolism play a significant role, even with low-dose lithium. Some people may experience more substantial weight gain, while others may see minimal changes.

Does lithium cause weight gain or loss?
Lithium is generally associated with weight gain rather than weight loss. The weight gain is often due to increased appetite, fluid retention, and metabolic changes. Managing lithium and weight gain effectively can involve adjusting diet, exercise, and sometimes modifying lithium dosages under a doctor’s guidance.