Lithium

Question 1

What is the mechanism of action of Lithium?

Answer 1

• Inhibits dopamine release at synapses
  Inc turnover of norepinephrine (NA) and serotonin (5-HT)
  Dec postsynaptic receptor sensitivity
  ↓
• Corrects overactive catecholamine systems

Question 2

3 Indications of Lithium

Answer 2

• Maniac phase (Bipolar disorder)
• Schizophrenia
• Prevent mood swings

Question 3

Give 4 adverse effect of Lithium?

Answer 3

• Leukocytosis/Li toxicity
• Inc thirst & Urination (Polydipsia & Polyuria)
• Tremore
• Hypothyroidism
• Inc weight gain
• Upset stomach (N/V/Diarrhea)
• M. weakness

Question 4

True or False: Lithium is primarily used to treat anxiety disorders.

Answer 4

False

Question 5

What is a common side effect of Lithium?

Answer 5

Tremor.

Question 6

What is the therapeutic range for Lithium levels in the blood?

Answer 6

0.6-1.2 mEq/L.

Question 7

What is an important monitoring parameter when a patient is taking Lithium?

Answer 7

Renal function.

Question 8

True or False: Lithium can cause weight gain as a side effect.

Answer 8

True

Question 9

What is a potential serious adverse effect of Lithium toxicity?

Answer 9

Seizures.

Question 10

Fill in the blank: Lithium is contraindicated in patients with severe _______ disease.

Answer 10

Renal

Question 11

What electrolyte imbalance can be a concern with Lithium use?

Answer 11

Hyponatremia.

Question 12

What is a common symptom of Lithium toxicity?

Answer 12

Nausea and vomiting.

Question 13

True or False: Lithium can cause hypothyroidism.

Answer 13

True

Question 14

What is an important counseling point for patients taking Lithium?

Answer 14

Maintain consistent salt intake.

Question 15

What is a potential drug interaction with Lithium?

Answer 15

NSAIDs, Diuretics, Antihistamines

Question 16

What is the half-life of Lithium?

Answer 16

24 hours.

Question 17

True or False: Lithium is considered a first-line treatment for major depressive disorder.

Answer 17

False

Question 18

What is a common initial side effect of Lithium that may resolve over time?

Answer 18

Polyuria.

Question 19

What is a key point to monitor for in patients taking Lithium?

Answer 19

Thyroid function tests.

Question 20

How does lithium interact w Diuretics, NSAIDs, Antihistamines?

Answer 20

Diuretics
↓ sodium, ↑ toxicity risk

NSAIDs
↓ PGs, ↑ Retention of Na&Li, Causing Li toxicity

Antihistamines
↑ urinary retention, ↑ discomfort w polyuria

Question 21

3 Advices that could be given to Pts taking Lithium?

Answer 21

•Med after meals/w food to avoid GI upset
•maintain fluid intake 98-12glass/day)
•monitor renal func, thyroid func, Li & Ca level