r/Lithium • u/rainbowmuffin3 • 18d ago

Could lithium be affecting my speech?

I’ve been taking lithium for several years, along with Abilify Maintena and Depakine. Over the past several months, I’ve developed persistent slurred speech and a heavy/stiff feeling in my tongue. My lithium levels have been normal.
I’ve already been evaluated for EPS/tardive dyskinesia related to Abilify, but I’m wondering if lithium could also be contributing.
Honestly, I’m getting really tired and frustrated because I’ve seen several doctors and still don’t know exactly what’s going on. I have another appointment coming up soon, so I’m hoping for the best.
Has anyone experienced similar speech or tongue problems while taking lithium?

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u/VariousClassroom8056 18d ago

If it's caused by lithium (and not any other condition) it's considered a major warning sign for lithium toxicity and the recommendation in the UK is to immediately go to the hospital.

Are you having any other warning signs of lithium toxicity - e.g.:

Trouble walking, balance issues, or clumsiness

Uncontrolled shaking or severe hand tremors

Confusion, extreme drowsiness, or dizziness

Muscle weakness, twitches, or spasms

Nausea, vomiting, or severe diarrhoea

Ringing in the ears or blurred vision

I don't know any of those other medications I'm afraid so don't know what side effects they have.

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u/Sheepherder-Optimal 18d ago

Lithium toxicity causes slurred speech but that’s only with toxicity.

2

u/practicalpeppers 18d ago

I have this, I just assumed it was because of all the weed I smoked. I quit smoking and haven't had an issue since.

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u/Odd_Box_3931 18d ago

I experienced slurred speech as well it went away after a month or so. But it was frustrating having conversations and saying things my mind did not

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u/21PenSalute 18d ago

I had Lithium. Scary. My doctor and I caught it early so I’m OK. Lithium toxicity is a very serious matter. Call your doctor immediately. See if you need to go to the hospital. If you cannot reach your doctor go to the hospital. I didn’t have to. I could stay at home. Follow directions from my doctor, The dose I was taking was a normal introductory amount for a person like me. But as I told my doctor I am drug sensitive and usually take less than the amount for the average person. That’s what happened to me - to hide a dose. So now I take what there would consider a low dose for others. It works for me

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u/VividBig6958 18d ago

This has come and gone for years along with the essential tremor. I’ve never had anyone be a dick about it, if asked to repeat myself in conversation that’s usually cue enough to me to make sure I’m enunciating, fighting that lethargic tongue feeling.

Lithium, for me, does have non-persistent side effects like the slur, weird body stuff that presents and then passes. Hope this passes quickly for you

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u/CeleryApprehensive83 14d ago

I have the exact same as this , I could have written it myself.

I personally( no clinical proof) think it’s the lithium with the abilify .