If you or your child takes lithium for bipolar disorder, watch for the first signs of high levels of lithium in the blood. It's important to maintain a careful balance of lithium in the blood, and the difference between helpful (therapeutic) levels and toxic levels is very small. Signs of high lithium include:

• Shaky hands and muscle twitching.
• Weakness, loss of balance, and/or drowsiness.
• Vomiting and diarrhea.

At the first signs of excess lithium buildup in the blood, call your doctor.

Later symptoms of high lithium in the blood include:

• Slurred speech.
• Confusion.
• Seizures.

If you experience any of these later symptoms, you need immediate medical treatment. Call 911 or other emergency services.