Is lithium the element, and lithium the drug, actually the same thing?

Question

Is lithium the element, and lithium the drug, actually the same thing?

Question #128043. Asked by arscreens.
Last updated Nov 26 2012.
Originally posted Nov 26 2012 10:05 PM.

1nn1

Answer has 6 votes

Currently Best Answer

1nn1

13 year member
175 replies avatar

Answer has 6 votes.

Currently voted the best answer.

Yes and no. They are the same element but it is the ionic form Li+ that is used in pharmacology usually combined with carbonate or sulphate. The lithium ion mimics the sodium ion Na+ in the body. Used to treat mania and other related disorders
See

http://www.drugs.com/lithium.html

Nov 26 2012, 10:22 PM

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Answer 1

davefarm

Answer has 1 vote

davefarm

16 year member
43 replies avatar

Answer has 1 vote.

If you're referring to the bipolar treatment, the actual drug is lithium carbonate (Li2CO3), which includes the element lithium.

Nov 26 2012, 10:24 PM

Answer 2

wyambezi

Answer has 3 votes

wyambezi

15 year member
144 replies avatar

Answer has 3 votes.

Lithium (the drug) is derived from the element of the same name.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lithium_pharmacology

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lithium

Nov 26 2012, 10:25 PM

Is lithium the element, and lithium the drug, actually the same thing?

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