The treatment plan is a key document in the guidelines which, once completed, ensures continuity of care with the transfer of patient-specific information
Serum lithium levels were measured at 12 and 24 h post the last dose in 48 patients taking an OD dosing of sustained preparations of lithium
20]) were calculated
It is also useful in combating treatment-resistant depression
Based on: Practice
PATIENT & CAREGIVER EDUCATION Lithium This information from Lexicomp explains what you need to know about this medication, including what it’s used for, how to take it
It is very important to have the right amount of lithium in your body
Since different medications and foods can affect lithium levels in your body, make sure to have a
Monitoring should be done every 1 to 2 weeks until reaching the desired therapeutic levels
Lithium is a commonly prescribed drug for treating bipolar disorder and unipolar (refractory) depression
Monitor for signs and symptoms of lithium toxicity
However, lithium has a very narrow therapeutic index, and it is crucial to carefully monitor lithium plasma levels as concentrations greater than 1
Lithium serum levels, renal and thyroid function were monitored by (almost) all physicians
Monitor thyroid function tests yearly
Lithium levels of 0
For example, levels above 1
2 mmol/L may be toxic in older patients)
Patients who took controlled release lithium may not reach peak levels for >24 hr
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Lithium should be dosed according to plasma levels with a target level of 0
Too little lithium risks undertreatment of the mood disorder and increases the risk of relapse
Doing so effectively requires knowledge of what to measure, how to ensure accurate results, and how to properly interpret them
2013; Malhi et al
Common side effects include metallic taste, nausea, tremor, polyuria, polydipsia and weight gain
A systematic literature search was conducted on 2 electronic databases—PubMed and Medline Since serum levels of lithium of 0
0 serum levels: check 7 days after initiation and repeat weekly until stable (sample to be taken 12 hours post dose, prior to the next dose if twice daily dosing)
6 - 0
The quality of lithium monitoring in patients who are in contact with mental health services falls short of recognised standards and targets
8 Liaise with pathology staff about all lithium results communication to the appropriate parties including GPs
Regular monitoring of lithium levels and renal function in accordance with published guidelines is required
To devise a system to ensure that patients receiving lithium had appropriate blood test • Prescribing and monitoring responsibility of patients with a target lithium level >1 mmol/L must not transfer to primary care
6 to 0
Following initiation, lithium levels should be checked weekly during titration, up until the desired serum level is reached
2: The following tests/measures should be conducted during maintenance treatment with lithium: (a) serum lithium level every 3 months; (b) renal and thyroid function tests every 6 months, and; (c) weight or BMI or waist circumference during the last year