Cibalith-S for Autism

Overview
Cibalith-S is a prescription drug. Its active ingredient, lithium carbonate, was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1970. In children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), Cibalith-S can be effective in addressing mood disorders such as mania and euphoria. Cibalith-S is also known by its drug name, Lithium carbonate.

Cibalith-S is not suitable for children under the age of 12. Cibalith-S is not recommended for use in pregnant women.

Cibalith-S is a mood stabilizer. Cibalith-S is believed to work by changing the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain.

How do I take it?
Before prescribing Cibalith-S, your doctor may take your child’s weight and height. It is recommended to chart the child’s growth every three months while taking Cibalith-S to ensure that the drug is not interfering with physical development.

Cibalith-S is taken orally twice a day.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when taking Cibalith-S.

Results
A retrospective review published in 2014 charted the experiences of 30 children and adolescents diagnosed with ASD and treated with Lithium carbonate (Cibalith-S). Healthcare providers rated 71 percent of the participants improved in symptoms including mania and euphoria.

Side effects
Cibalith-S may interfere with bone formation in children.

Common side effects of Cibalith-S are vomiting, tremors, fatigue, irritability, and bed-wetting.

Many drugs can cause allergic reactions that, in the most serious cases, can result in death. Seek immediate medical help if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing or swelling in the face, throat, eyes, lips or tongue.