Lithium Serum Test

The Lithium Serum test measures the levels of lithium in your blood.

• Therapeutic Monitoring: It is used to monitor the concentration of lithium in the blood to ensure that it remains within the therapeutic range. Maintaining the appropriate lithium levels is essential for effective treatment and preventing relapses. The therapeutic range varies depending on the individual and is determined by the healthcare provider.
• Dose Adjustment: The test helps determine whether the current dosage of lithium needs to be adjusted. If the lithium levels are below the therapeutic range, the healthcare provider may increase the dose. Conversely, if the levels are too high and approaching toxic levels, the dose may need to be reduced.
• Avoiding Toxicity: Lithium toxicity can occur when the levels of lithium in the blood become excessively high. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including tremors, confusion, nausea, dizziness, and even more severe complications. Regular monitoring of lithium levels helps detect and prevent toxicity, allowing adjustments in dosage as needed.
• Compliance Assessment: The test also aids in assessing patient compliance with medication. By monitoring lithium levels over time, healthcare providers can determine whether patients are taking their medication as prescribed. Consistently low lithium levels may indicate non-compliance, while excessively high levels may suggest overdosing.

Your doctor might recommend the Lithium Serum test if you

• have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder or any other form of manic-depressive disorder, or
• are currently taking lithium medication.

Abnormal results may indicate various conditions:

• Low lithium levels: May suggest ineffective treatment or noncompliance with medication
• High lithium levels: Can lead to lithium toxicity, resulting in symptoms like confusion, muscle tremors, and excessive thirst

A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from your arm. The sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis.

• Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are currently taking, as they can interfere with the test results. Also, tell them if you have any specific requirements.
• Follow your doctor's instructions regarding fasting requirements or any specific dietary restrictions.
• Ensure you take your usual lithium dose prior to the test unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.

• Kidney function tests: To monitor kidney health due to lithium's potential impact on renal function
• Thyroid function tests: To assess thyroid hormone levels, as lithium can affect thyroid function

Serum lithium level test

Manic-depressive disorder, also known as bipolar disorder, is a mental health condition characterised by extreme mood swings. People with this disorder experience periods of intense mania alternated with episodes of depression. It is a chronic condition requiring ongoing management and treatment.