I have used lithium for 6 years. At first I didn't have side effects but the bipolar wasn't under control either. For the last 18 months the side effects became worse and worse. In the end I couldn't hold anything in my hand because of tremor, I was dizzy and off balance most of the time, couldn't concentrate, memory non existing, had problems at work, had irrational fears, couldn't drive my car (it has dents on every side!), couldn't climb stairs.