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🧪 What is the Lithium Test?

The Lithium test measures the amount of lithium in the blood.
Lithium is a mood stabilizer used primarily to treat:

Because lithium has a narrow therapeutic range, blood levels must be monitored regularly to avoid toxicity.

❓ Why is the Test Done?

To:

⏱️ Timing of the Test

Sample is usually collected 12 hours after the last dose (called a trough level) for accurate monitoring.
Regular testing is done:
- 1–2 weeks after starting or changing dose
- Then every 3–6 months once stable

📊 Reference (Therapeutic) Range

Lithium Level (Serum)	Interpretation
0.6–1.2 mmol/L	Therapeutic range for most indications
< 0.6 mmol/L	Possibly sub-therapeutic
> 1.2 mmol/L	Toxic range – risk of side effects
> 1.5–2.0 mmol/L	Serious toxicity – medical emergency

Target may vary slightly (e.g., 0.8–1.0 mmol/L for acute mania).

⚠️ Symptoms of Lithium Toxicity

System	Signs of Toxicity
Neurological	Tremors, confusion, seizures, drowsiness
Gastrointestinal	Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Renal	Polyuria, dehydration
Cardiac	Arrhythmias (rare, in severe cases)

🧠 Associated Organs & Considerations

System/Organ	Consideration
Kidneys	Lithium is excreted renally – kidney function impacts levels
Thyroid	Long-term use may lead to hypothyroidism
Nervous System	High levels affect brain function
Electrolytes	Sodium levels affect lithium handling

🔄 Related / Follow-Up Tests

✅ Fasting Required?

Test	Fasting Required
Lithium Test	❌ No (but sample should be taken 12 hours post-dose)**

Timing is more critical than fasting.

📝 Summary Table

Parameter	Details
What	Measures blood lithium level
Why	Monitor mood stabilizer therapy; avoid toxicity
Therapeutic Range	0.6–1.2 mmol/L
Toxic Range	>1.2 mmol/L (serious >1.5 mmol/L)
Follow-up Tests	Kidney, thyroid, electrolytes
Associated Risks	Renal impairment, neurological effects, hypothyroidism
Fasting Required	❌ No (but 12-hr post-dose sampling essential)

Lithium