Sister Coming Off of Lithium

My sister talked to her med doctor yesterday and the doctor told her that she can stop taking her lithium cold turkey. I feel like this could potentially have negative side effects. The doctor said that because my sister is below the therapeutic range, the lithium is having no effect right now, and therefor completely going off of it will have no side effects. What the doctor is saying makes sense to me, but I just feel like it's better to ween off it gradually, just to be safe.

She was taking 750mg for about 10 years and a few months ago went down to 600mg because her heart rate was too low (48). Going down to 600mg seemed to have improved her heart rate (now it's around 60), but it also brought her below the therapeutic range. So now the doctor is saying to just go off of it.

Do you agree that she should go down at least somewhat gradually? Or is the doctor right about it having no side effects if she just stops completely?

Dear tovlu,

it is against forum rules to advise members to go against medical advice. Therefore please be aware any direct responses to your questions will be deleted.

However if someone has indeed quit lithium cold turkey at their doctor's advice and has experience of that and wishes to share, that is ok. Bear in mind your sister's reaction to medication might be totally different from anybody else's. We don't know her medical history, other meds she's taking, how fit she is, how old she is, what her normal heart rate is, etc., and even if we did, we're not medical professionals. My suggestion would be if you are in doubt, get second opinion -- not on an internet forum -- from another psychiatrist.

Greetings!

I would get a second opinion.

sixprime wrote:I would get a second opinion.

Me too, without a moment's hesitation!