Lithium Flashcards
1
Q
What are the main indications for lithium?
A
Management of bipolar affective disorder:
- acute treatment of symptoms - reduce mood in episodes of mania and raise mood in depressive episodes.
- long term treatment - to stabilise mood and prevent recurrence of both mania and depression.
2
Q
Contraindications and cautions for lithium?
A
If possible avoid in pregnancy (particularly in 1st trimester) and breast feeding
3
Q
Adverse effects of lithium?
A
Dry mouth/strange taste
Polydipsia (frequent thirst) and polyuria (frequent urination)
Hypothyroidism
4
Q
Tremor effects of lithium?
A
Fine tremor (barely noticeable) = therapeutic dose
Coarse tremor (large displacement) = toxicity
5
Q
Toxic effects of lithium?
A
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Convulsions
Coma
6
Q
Lithium administration?
A
PO (orally)
7
Q
How long after lithium dose are lithium levels checked?
A
12 hours
