Bipolar Disorder

Question 1

Bipolar Disorder

Answer 1

Lithium carbonate (Lithobid)

Question 2

Lithium carbonate (Lithobid)
Used for

Answer 2

• Used with benzodiazepine or an antipsychotic for acute mania phase
• Used with an antidepressant for depressive phase

Question 3

MOA for Lithium carbonate (Lithobid)

Answer 3

• Precise mechanism not known
• Likely acts by changing neurotransmitter balance in specific brain regions
• Increase the synthesis of serotonin

Question 4

Nursing Concerns for Lithium carbonate (Lithobid)

Answer 4

• Obtain baseline thyroid, kidney, cardiac function
• Take drug with meals or milk to reduce GI upset
• Monitor serum levels every 1-3 days initially and then 2-3 months thereafter (lithium toxicity)
• Assess daily for weight, edema and changes in skin turgor
• Instruct patient to take 8-12 glasses of fluid daily to main hydration
• Warn for switching different brands