Lithium Carbonate (Li₂CO₃) is an inorganic compound widely used in psychiatry and pharmaceutical formulations as a mood stabilizer.
It plays a crucial role in the treatment of bipolar disorder, manic depression, and mood fluctuations, helping regulate neurotransmitter activity and stabilize emotional balance.

Chemical Structure and Composition

Chemical Formula: Li₂CO₃
Molecular Weight: 73.89 g/mol
Molecular Structure: Composed of two lithium ions (Li⁺) and one carbonate ion (CO₃²⁻)
CAS Number: 554-13-2
Grade: Pharmaceutical / API (≥99.5% purity)

Lithium Carbonate is an ionic compound formed from one of the lightest alkali metals.
Due to its ionic nature, it dissociates partially in aqueous media and demonstrates controlled solubility, which is essential for its pharmacokinetic behavior.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Property	Specification
Appearance	White powder or colorless crystals
Density	~2.11 g/cm³
Melting Point	~723°C
Solubility in Water	Slightly soluble (~1.3 g/L at 25°C)
Vapor Pressure	Negligible (non-volatile at room temperature)
Purity (Pharma Grade)	≥99.5%
Stability	Stable under normal storage conditions
Odor	Odorless

Pharmaceutical Applications

Pharmaceutical Grade Lithium Carbonate is primarily used in psychiatric medicine for mood stabilization and long-term management of affective disorders.

Main therapeutic uses include:

Treatment of Bipolar Disorder
Control of manic and hypomanic episodes
Prevention of severe depressive phases
Reduction of aggressive or self-harming behavior
Component of sustained-release formulations for steady plasma concentration

Additionally, it is used in neuroscience research and drug development studies related to neurotransmitter regulation and neuroprotection.

Advantages

Proven clinical efficacy in stabilizing mood and preventing relapse
Long-term maintenance therapy effectiveness
Reduces hospitalization rates in bipolar patients
Cost-effective compared to newer mood stabilizers
Backed by over 50 years of medical research and clinical experience

Limitations and Side Effects

Despite its therapeutic importance, Lithium Carbonate must be used under strict medical supervision due to potential side effects:

Possible tremors, weight gain, and increased thirst
Requires regular monitoring of serum lithium levels to avoid toxicity
Drug interactions with diuretics, NSAIDs, and cardiac medications
Contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation
Long-term use may affect renal and thyroid function

Safety and Storage Guidelines

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture and direct light.
Handling: Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP); avoid inhalation of powder.
Administration: Use only under medical supervision and at prescribed dosages.
Monitoring: Regularly assess renal and thyroid function during extended use.
Hydration: Ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
Avoid concomitant use with interacting drugs unless approved by a physician.

Summary

Pharmaceutical Grade Lithium Carbonate remains one of the most effective and established treatments for mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorder.
Its long-standing clinical validation, affordability, and therapeutic reliability make it a cornerstone compound in modern psychopharmacology.