Posted by Larry Hoover on October 24, 2004, at 11:23:45
In reply to lithium, psyllium and ibuprofen, posted by platinumbride on October 24, 2004, at 8:31:16
> Now I keep reading that psyllium can reduce lithium levels.
>
> My p-doc never mentioned that this could be an issue when I told him about the metamucil, so I wonder just how much of an issue this is. Anyone have any insight?Psyllium fiber is a soluble fiber. What that means is it draws water to it, and weakly binds it there. It's like a giant sponge, holding something like 150 times its own mass in water. Anything that dissolves in water will also get drawn to the sponge. Lithium ions are water soluble, so you will perhaps reduce lithium uptake if you take the lithium around the time you take the psyllium. One half hour before the psyllium, or three hours after, should be a safe separation.
You should still continue to get blood levels of lithium done, as diarrhea itself is a disturbance in electrolytes. When you feel phsyically stable, your levels will become a more precise reflection of your biochemistry.
> Also, for the ladie's who are reading, I am now FINALLY getting my period again. I was so thrilled until the cramping started. I'm DYING to take some ibuprofen, as that is the only thing that has ever really worked for me, but I keep reading that it is a questionable thing to do.
The interaction between lithium and ibuprofen is very idiosyncratic. What that means is that for some people it's a big deal, but not for others.
Really, the interaction applies to all prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors, the NSAIDs as a class.
If you wish to try any of this class for relief of your cramps, it's not contra-indicated. It requires that you monitor the effects. If signs of lithium toxicity seem to appear, then it may not be a good idea for you.
> What are women on lithium doing for cramps?
>
> FWIW: I am on 600 mgs of lithium/day and my level at either 600 or 900 mgs of the drug is .6.
>
> Thanks,
>
> DianeGood luck with this new therapy. It sounds like it's working.
Lar
poster:Larry Hoover
thread:406578
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20041024/msgs/406624.html