Hi, I'm Lea

October 18, 2026

Hello, I have been on lithium for 24 years. Diagnosed bipolar (after psychotic episode after birth of 2nd child - my father was schizophrenic). Started at 900mg. Now holding on 200mg. I have CKD 3b egfr 37 as a result. I am below theraputic level and need to get off due to kidney damage. My psychiatrist is following GMMH and NICE guidelines guideines with the following proposed taper: change from tablet to 5ml citrate, prescribe 1ml and 2ml on alternate days for 6 months and then reduce to 1ml daily for 6 months. I feel the initial drop is too steep, and the alternating steps destabilizing. I would welcome any comments or advice.

Lithium (carbonate / citrate) — 200mg — 24 years — holding | without clinician

1 Reply

⭐

Catina2h ago

Community AnchorEffexor

Hi @Lea, welcome to Taper Community! Yes, lithium can affect the kidneys (and liver). Your gut instinct is correct - it's too large of a drop. Also, alternating days with doses (or skipping altogether some days) is not recommended. It's best to keep things as stable and consistent as possible. https://taper.community/drugs/lithium https://taper.community/resources/blog/lithium-discontinuation-and-rebound I hope this helps. Let us know if you have any more questions or concerns! Catina ❤️

Venlafaxine (tapering) - Current dose 17.28 mg
Trazodone - 50 mg
Synthroid - 25 mcg

“Your brain and body know how to heal. Trust the process and keep going.”

Please Note: I am not a healthcare professional. Any advice given is based on personal experience and that of others in the lay withdrawal community.

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