Hacker News new | ask | show | jobs
by idiocrat 702 days ago
> Moncrieff argues that drug companies, doctors and psychiatrists benefit from this situation because it’s profitable.

I recently discovered low dose lithium for myself. (self-medicated OTC lithium orotate, 5mg 2x daily)

This has greatly improved my mood and attitude to life.

Lithium has removed most of my procrastination by eliminating negative thoughts (i.e. "that is a difficult task, so I better defer this to tomorrow"). Starting and finishing something has become so easy now.

All work and household related tasks are now lightweight (chores, washing dishes, making beds). All things I found annoying to do before.

I am generally happy, positive-minded and open-minded toward other people.

Lithium is not a sedative or a pain killer -- I am still normally tired after a day, but now I am prioritizing my time rationally, and not based on negative emotions.

Somebody said that Lithium is too cheap, no profit to make, so pharma companies will not spend much on further R&D.

P.S. Of course lithium is a psycho-active substance, and surely has some side-effects. All above is only my personal experience. Please consult your doctor and be extremely careful with self-medication.

3 comments

Lithium salts would be a wonder drug if they didn't cause permanent kidney damage.
Lithium worked amazing for my partner, but:

- Kidney damage is very likely

- It should not be combined with ibuprofen

- Possibly safe Withdrawal took forever

Interesting. What's your sentiment on abrupt cessation vs titrating down, provided you ever wanted to stop taking it?