Licab XL 400mg

Licab XL 400 mg

Licab XL is widely used in the prevention and treatment of manic depression and mania and the maintenance treatment of recurrent depression. Maintenance treatment prevents or diminishes the intensity of subsequent episodes in those manic-depressive patients who previously experienced mania.  

It contains lithium carbonate, which is useful for its anti-manic effect and in preventing relapses in patients with a clear cut-diagnosis of bipolar affective disorder.   

In mania

A person experiencing mania or a manic episode has abnormally extreme mood, behaviour, activity, and energy changes. Licab extended-release tablets help calm the mood and relax the nerves. The medicine stabilizes the mood and prevents the recurrence of mania symptoms. Taking lithium will help ensure you have a better social life and can do daily activities more comfortably.  

In bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes changes in a person’s mood, energy, and ability to function. Lithium tablets work by restoring the normal balance of nerve activity in your brain. It helps prevent extreme mood changes and helps you feel less agitated. You may experience fewer episodes of low mood. It may take several weeks for this medicine to work, and you may still feel low. Your doctor may be asked you to take this medicine for at least six months but possibly much longer, depending on the patient’s condition. A patient must take this medicine regularly to work effectively. Do not discontinue treatment unless your doctor advises you to. You should continue to eat healthily and keep yourself fit to reduce the symptoms associated with bipolar disorder.  

How to use Licab XL 400 mg?

Licab extended-release tablet should be taken with food. However, it is advised to take it at the same time each day as this helps to maintain a consistent level of medicine in the body. Do not skip the treatment and finish the full course of therapy even if you feel better. You should continue to take this medicine for as long as the doctor advises and do not discontinue treatment suddenly as it may cause harmful effects.

What are the Precautions (warning, allergy, things to remember)?

Pediatric use- Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients below the age of twelve have not been established.

Geriatric use- In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautiously made. Elderly patients require lower lithium dosages to achieve therapeutic doses.

Use in pregnancy- Your doctor should be aware of your pregnancy status. If you become pregnant while taking medicine, the patient should be aware of the potentially hazardous effects of the medicine.   

What are the Side effects of Licab XL 400mg?

Licab XL 400 mg side effects subside with continued treatment or a temporary reduction or cessation of dosage. If persistent, a cessation of lithium treatment may be required. Drowsiness, vomiting, diarrhoea, lack of coordination, and muscular weakness may be signs of lithium intoxication.   

Other side effects include muscle irritability, ataxia, hypertonicity, tremor etc.