Lithium

Question 1

2 key indications of lithium

Answer 1

Bipolar

Persistent depression that doesn’t respond to antidepressants

Question 2

Explain to a pt how lithium works

Answer 2

“Changes the way the brain processes signals”

Not fully known

Question 3

1 key question to ask in lithium counselling

Answer 3

Are you pregnant! Or could you be….

Causes birth defects (heart) and crosses into breast milk

Question 4

When must lithium be taken

Answer 4

Any time - night recommended
Blood test is always 12 hours after
Same time every day

Question 5

What do you do if you miss a dose of lithium

Answer 5

Don’t take another

Back to normal schedule

Question 6

How do patients keep track of their lithium prescription

Answer 6

Lithium book

Question 7

When will lithium start working

Answer 7

Several weeks to months

Question 8

When is lithium levels measured

Answer 8

12 hours after

Question 9

Lithium levels monitoring

Answer 9

To start with weekly, then every month

Once stable every 3 months

UEs, TFTs Ca every 6 months

Question 10

5 key side effects of lithium

Answer 10

Weight gain 
Metalic taste
Increased thirst + urine output/ frequency
Tiredness
Fine tremor

Question 11

Lithium side effects that suggest toxicity

Answer 11

Seizures, confusion, drowsiness, LOC

Difficulty speaking, blurred vision

Excessive thirst