Does Lithium Cause Weight Gain?

Approximately 25% of people gain weight from taking lithium, according to a review article published in Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica. 1 After analyzing all relevant published medical studies, the authors reported an average weight gain of 10 to 26 pounds among those who experience this troubling side effect.

How can I avoid gaining weight on lithium?

Minimize sugary or sweetened beverages while taking lithium.

Weight gain is a known unwanted side effect associated with lithium use. Limiting caloric intake from beverages can help avoid or keep weight gain to a minimum. Lithium can make you very thirsty.

How do you lose weight on lithium?

Treatment of lithium-induced weight gain includes non-pharmacological measures such as exercise, avoidance of liquid calories and restricted calorie intake,14) as well as several medications that have been useful for psychotropic-induced weight gain.