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Lithium

Also known as: [Often referred to by brand name (see MedlinePlus Drug Information)]
Formal name: Lithium
Related tests: Therapeutic drug monitoring, Emergency and Overdose Drug Testing, BUN, Creatinine, TSH

Common Questions

1.  How long will I need to be on lithium?

Lithium is usually taken every day for a person's lifetime. Bipolar disorder can be managed but not cured.

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2.  Who orders lithium tests?

They may be monitored by your primary doctor but may also be ordered and monitored by a mental health professional.

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3.  Can I test my lithium level at home?

No, the test requires specialized equipment. Most blood samples are collected from a vein in the arm and tested in the laboratory. However, the FDA has approved a test that can be performed in the doctor's office (it requires blood from a fingerstick). This test may not be widely available yet, but its use may become more common in the near future.

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