Lithium

(Li)

₹529~~₹559~~ 5% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

Clinical history is required. Please provide the date and time of the last dose and other relevant dosage information.
It is recommended to provide the sample just before the scheduled dose is due (trough levels) unless otherwise specified by your doctor.

Understanding Lithium

What is Lithium?

The Lithium test is performed to measure the concentration of lithium in blood. Lithium (Li+) is an element that is used as medicine in the treatment of bipolar disorders and psychological conditions like depression.

This test is done to know the correct dose for the treatment. It also helps to determine whether the current dosage of lithium needs to be adjusted and if the patient is taking the required dose. It also helps analyze the concentration of lithium in the blood which helps to note if there is a possibility of lithium toxicity. Some of the common symptoms of lithium toxicity include slurred speech, confusion, seizures, drowsiness, and irregular heartbeat.

Sources of dietary lithium include cereals, potatoes, tomatoes, cabbage, spices such as nutmeg, coriander seeds, or cumin, grains (oats), and seafood. Staying hydrated, keeping caffeine and salt intake constant, and avoiding alcohol can help in keeping lithium levels stable.

Note: The following points need to be considered while interpreting Lithium levels:

Therapeutic ranges in reports are based on the sample collected time just before the scheduled dose is due.
Factors affecting Lithium concentration in the blood are:
1. The levels of lithium in blood varies with the time after the dose, blood sample should be done 10-14 hours after last dose (trough level) or just before the next dose is due.
2. Medical conditions of the patient and level of hydration can affect lithium levels due to electrolyte/fluid imbalance like vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration & impaired renal function.
3. If the patient compliance is poor (i.e. not taking medication at regular times) or there is change in drug brand - these can cause fluctuations due to the different bioavailability of drug.
4. Concurrent use of other drugs may affect Lithium metabolism or excretion and hence affect its level in blood. E.g. ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists (sartans), diuretics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), theophylline, acetazolamide, etc.

What is Lithium used for?

· To establish a therapeutic dosage for lithium

· To monitor blood concentration at regular intervals to help maintain the therapeutic concentration

· To check for lithium toxicity upon the appearance of symptoms

Interpreting Lithium results

Interpretations

Therapeutic range: 0.6 to 1.2 mmol/L

The standard therapeutic range of lithium concentration may vary from person to person and is usually established at the beginning of the treatment.

Lower than the therapeutic range lithium concentration makes the drug ineffective in treatment.

Higher than the therapeutic range lithium concentration induces symptoms associated with lithium toxicity.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lithium

Frequently Asked Questions about Lithium

Q. What are the symptoms of lithium toxicity?

Lithium toxicity may occur if the lithium concentration in your blood is higher than the therapeutic range. Symptoms of lithium toxicity include: · Fatigue and drowsiness · Gastrointestinal problems including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea · Slurring of speech · Confusion · Dizziness · Loss of coordination · Muscle weakness · Restlessness · Shivering · Seizures Very high concentration of lithium in blood may cause renal failure and even death.

Q. When can false results appear in the Lithium Test?

False results may appear in the lithium test if the test is not performed at the trough level. Trough level is the point when the concentration of lithium in blood is the lowest. Certain medications may affect the levels of lithium in blood. Loss of salt and water from the body due to excessive sweating, vomiting, etc. may affect lithium levels. Consumption of alcohol can also affect lithium concentration in blood.

Q. What other tests can be prescribed by your doctor in case the result of Lithium test is not normal?

Other tests that may be prescribed upon appearance of an abnormal result in the blood lithium test include: · Electrolyte Panel Tests · Kidney Function Tests · TSH Test

Q. What are the risks associated with lithium medication in pregnant women?

Use of lithium drugs during pregnancy can show some serious adverse effects on both the baby and the mother, including: · Risk of improper development of the heart · Risk of a stillborn child or death of the child soon after birth · Risk of lithium toxicity in the mother due to hormonal changes. Lithium may also be passed on to the baby during breastfeeding and may have negative effects on the baby.

Q. Is there any preparation required before the Lithium test?

Inform the doctor about any medications you may be taking as certain medications may affect the test results. The test is usually performed after about 12 hours from the last dose taken, at which point the concentration in blood is lowest and is said to be at trough level. No other preparations are required unless specified by your doctor.

Q. Is there any risk associated with this test?

There is no risk associated with the test. However, since this test involves a needle prick to withdraw the blood sample, in very rare cases, a patient may experience increased bleeding, hematoma formation (blood collection under the skin), bruising or infection at the site of needle prick.

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