Lithium and weight gain

Lithium prophylaxis leads to weight gain in a high proportion of patients treated, with up to a quarter becoming clinically obese. This can have detrimental effects on compliance and is also a health risk. The mechanism of such lithium-induced weight gain is unknown, but increased calorie intake, particularly in the form of high calorie drinks, has been implicated. Remedial steps such as adjusting the lithium dose and giving appropriate dietary advice should be taken at the first sign of weight gain.