Lithium Orotate

Dear Dr. Meletis, I am interested in taking Lithium Orotate. I was thinking it might help with my bouts of depression and my alcohol drinking problem. I work graveyard shift and my doctor prescribed me phentermine for energy and to stay awake through my shift. It seems to work well for me. I am also taking Xanax® for anxiety. Can I take Lithium Orotate with my current medications? Thank you. Mr. N.

Dear Mr. N., Your question is a good one. You are on phentermine, which is a stimulant, and you are on Xanax, which possesses sedative properties. So, there is a "back and forth" going on within your body due to these drugs that will make the addition of anything a challenge. If you started the Xanax after the phentermine, it may be the latter that is contributing to the anxiety or worsening of it. Lithium Orotate at a low dose can be helpful; so could 5-HTP and B vitamins (Extension B-Plex). L-Theanine is used for its natural calming effects. Likewise Kudzu (found in Intox Rx) and Chromium are used for alcohol cravings. A recent study showed that N-Acetyl Cysteine (also found in Intox Rx) may also help curb addictive cravings. Each of these can potentially be used, yet visiting with your personal physician about your current two medications and how they are working for you would be prudent, prior to adding anything new. One last thought: Organic Acid Testing and Salivary Hormone Testing could offer a more specific degree of insight into your unique chemistry. You can read more about these tests on this website. They are available to order here and can be conducted in the privacy of your home. The information provided here is intended as educational and not as diagnosis or treatment. Sincerely, Chris D. Meletis, ND