Lithium Carbonate (Lithium Carbonate) - Description and Clinical Pharmacology

Rev. 04/07

Rx Only

DESCRIPTION

Lithium Carbonate is a white, light alkaline powder with molecular formula Li₂CO₃ and molecular weight 73.89. Lithium is an element of the alkali-metal group with atomic number 3, atomic weight 6.94 and an emission line at 671 nm on the flame photometer.

Each extended-release tablet for oral administration contains 450 mg of lithium carbonate. In addition, each tablet contains the following inactive ingredients: Alginic Acid, Corn Starch, Magnesium Stearate, Povidone, and Yellow Iron Oxide. Lithium Carbonate Extended-Release Tablets 450 mg are designed to release a portion of the dose initially and the remainder gradually; the release pattern of the extended release tablets reduces the variability in lithium blood levels seen with the immediate release dosage forms.

This product meets USP Drug Release Test 2.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

Preclinical studies have shown that lithium alters sodium transport in nerve and muscle cells and effects a shift toward intraneuronal metabolism of catecholamines, but the specific biochemical mechanism of lithium action in mania is unknown.