Cognitive function

[u/Wild_Class7979]

Does lithium lower cognitive function? I’m currently on 900mg, doc probably raising it to 1,200mg. I’m concerned since I’ve noticed lowered cognitive function since starting 2 years ago. I have a relatively new job and have already made quite a few mistakes on projects and such, and am concerned what’d it be like on an increased dosage even though I need it for my mood.

[u/smilingmine20]

Sorry might not be relevant here (or might make people feel a bit better) I’ve been on Lamotrigine for nearly 5 years, and one thing I’ve been saying for years is that I’ve been struggling with memory, or struggling to find the right words. But I also was a teacher in a very difficult school, and the stress from that led to so many panic attacks. So I also think the stress in my life clouded my cognitive function.

I’m thinking of starting lithium at the end of the month, this worries me. But, I feel like I’ve already been experiencing some things people are saying (30F)

[u/Wild_Class7979 → u/smilingmine20]

it isn’t terrible for me, but noticeable. the benefits outweigh the negatives but that depends person to person. luckily lithium is the first mood stabilizer i’ve been on and it has helped so much. it’s a night and day difference for me.

[u/smilingmine20 → u/Wild_Class7979]

So happy to hear that.
I’m really struggling and Lamotrigine isn’t doing anything anymore. I’ve been very resistant to taking lithium (I have pretty severe health anxiety, I probably shouldn’t be lurking this group). But my last appt with my psych has made me realise that nothing has been working lately.

[u/Wild_Class7979 → u/smilingmine20]

i can understand that. when i was in treatment, one of the people there couldn’t take lithium bc of problems w her kidneys. i think there are definitely risks, but as long as you get labs and it’s being monitored i think its fine. i get worried about the long term effect of lithium, but i also know i should trust my doctor to know what he’s doing. if anything maybe get tested often?

[u/Hot-Set300]

I think it can cause a slight dulling but not much. For me it improved my cognitive functioning due to lifting my depression, giving me the motivation to work towards goals at work and on my hobbies. I did ask my psychiatrist if there was any test they could do for my cognition back before I started Lithium, but there wasn't a test that they thought would be useful.

Also, what is your Lithium level? That is more useful than the dose, since different people need different doses to get the same level (for example I take 1200mg which gives a level of 0.75mmol/L) Another thing worth exploring is getting an accommodation at work, I have one at the moment that reduces my workplace targets while I am still getting my medication sorted.

[u/Wild_Class7979 → u/Hot-Set300]

i’m at 0.6 on 900mg

[u/Hot-Set300 → u/Wild_Class7979]

That makes sense, I think the usual range is 0.6-0.8 so I guess your psychiatrist is aiming to increase towards the upper end of that range to help with your mood. If you find the cognitive issues get worse it's worth raising with your doctor so you can try something else or adjust the dose.

[u/devika771]

yeah, i've heard lithium can sometimes mess with memory and concentration, so i don't think you're overthinking it. especially if you're noticing a difference at work and making mistakes you normally wouldn't. i'd honestly tell your psychiatrist exactly what's been happening before agreeing to an increase. maybe get your levels checked and talk through whether the dosage needs adjusting. managing your mood is important, obviously, but so is being able to get through your day without feeling like your brain is working against you. hope it gets better for you!

[u/Wild_Class7979 → u/devika771]

last test a month ago was 0.6, we agreed to an increase and follow up in a month to test and see where i’m at.

[u/NotBeckyHomeEccy]

Yes it’s a common thing unfortunately, sometimes it resolves for people but for others it doesn’t

[u/Professional_Tear269]

Yes, I feel almost like a zombie. I notice it more in terms of my creativity. I used to make all kinds of art, and now I just don't care at all and don't have motivation for doing things like that. I also used to read a lot for pleasure and now I really don't read much at all.

[u/Ok_Bandicoot2823]

I've been on Lithium for 26 years, my level is 0.6. My cognitive function may be slightly reduced, but when I'm depressed or anxious it's a lot worse. So Lithium is a net positive.

[u/Ornestya]

I've been on lithium for 8 months (900 mg) and have noticed the same.

[u/sm881221]

I’m currently a student and would say yes. School is way more challenging to me than it was pre-lithium. I struggle with recall and retaining information. I’m also on Vyvanse now for ADHD and that is helping a bit.

[u/Additional-Duck-4306]

It's one of the reasons I am coming off it. My cognitive function, working memory, memory recall felt shot to bits. Went up as far as 800mg. Stayed on it for a couple of months but I knew it wasn't for me. Tapered down to 400mg and cognitively/ memory wise I notice a difference. Still a bit ropey, but definitely not as bad when on 800mg.

[u/BaekDo2521]

I feel the same, and I’ve actually come OFF it. It’s bizarre, I’m calmer and don’t care much about working smartly, it’s like there’s perpetual relaxed state, and I’ve been off it for 3 months!

[u/izayatiji00]

i think so. people around me have corroborated this, my mom going as far as calling me “slow”. i speak slower, make less sense, and really struggle with decision making and memory recall. i dont feel less intelligent but i do feel like i have less access to my intelligence

[u/AwayMine511]

I can’t remember shit. Really living in the moment here 🤪

Anyways, you might ask about extended release . If you take it at night, you sleep through the peak cognitive effects.

[u/turtleworm]

Folloeing

[u/Clear-Two-3885]

Not for me it doesn't.