Edema lithium treatment

Edema is a common adverse effect of lithium treatment and may be related to some effect of lithium on sodium retention. Although weight gain may be expected in patients who become edematous, water retention does not account for the weight gain observed in up to 30% of patients taking lithium. 

Unlabeled Uses Treatment of edema associated with CHF, liver cirrhosis, and nephrotic syndrome treatment of hypertension reduces lithium-induced polyuria, slows pulmonary function reduction in cystic fibrosis... 

Both drugs are used in conjunction with other diuretics like thiazide or loop diuretics to augment natriuresis and reduce loss of potassium. Triamterene may be used in the treatment of congestive heart failure, cirrhosis and the edema caused by secondary hyperaldosteronism. Amiloride is also useful in lithium induced diabetes insipidus. 

The appearance of laboratory abnormalities does not require cessation of treatment however, if enzyme levels do not stabilize or return to normal, VPA should be discontinued and an alternate mood-stabilizing agent such as lithium used in its place. Liver function tests should be monitored more often during the first several weeks of therapy and every 6 to 12 months afterward. Routine liver function testing probably does not significantly prevent the occurrence of these unpredictable drug effects. Therefore, patients should be cautioned to immediately report symptoms of possible early hepatotoxicity such as easy bruising, decreased appetite, malaise, jaundice, and periorbital or dependent edema. In summary ... 

Edema associated with lithium is uncommon (334,335). It is usually restricted to the legs, and is usually transient or intermittent. If treatment is necessary, the intermittent... 

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