- Lithium appears to be effective at preventing both depressive and hypomanic/mixed relapse.
- Lithium can reduce the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours. These anti-suicidal properties are unique to lithium.
- There is less weight gain with lithium than with some other medications (for example, quetiapine and olanzapine).
- Most people are able to continue taking lithium even if they do experience some side-effects. Around 84 in 100 people continued taking lithium in a study lasting 18 months.
- Lithium is subsidised by the PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme), meaning that the Australian government covers part of the cost of this medication to make it more affordable. Check your eligibility for this scheme via: https://www.pbs.gov.au/info/general/faq#WhoiseligibletoreceivebenefitsunderthePBS
