Lithium Blood Test

Lithium Blood Test

Lithium Blood Test, A lithium test is used to evaluate the concentration of the drug in the blood. lithium test analyses the quantities of lithium found in the blood to ascertain drug concentrations. are in the therapeutic range or need moderation and alternation whilst monitoring the treatment of a bipolar disorder lithium is utilized as a mood-stabilizing drug- Upon ingestion lithium interacts with various neurotransmitters and receptors, lowering the secretion of norepinephrine and increasing serotonin synthesis.

Symptoms Of Lithium Level Test:

Symptoms known to be commonly observed in such scenarios are:

• Depression
• Racing thoughts
• Agitation
• severe mood swings, the mood is excessively high
• Poor judgment
• Risky behavior
• Trouble sleeping
• Thoughts of Suicide
• The feeling of sadness and hopelessness
• Loss of interest in daily activities

The excess level of Lithium in Blood:

Excess of lithium leads to lithium toxicity and develops symptoms such as:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Confusion, tremors
• insufficient amounts the medications might not be effective

Normal Range of lithium:

• Reference Range: Interpretation:
• Above 1.5 Potentially Tonie
• Above 2.0 Severely Toxic
• 0.6 to 1.2 Therapeutic range

Why Get lithium Test:

A lithium test is normally prescribed that is find out the lithium levels in the blood. It helps to treat mania (high mood swings with over-reactivity), racing thoughts, and acute episodes of bipolar illness, and to boost the effectiveness of antidepressants.

Preparation of lithium Test:

NO fasting is required, and no special preparation.

How to Perform the Test:

A blood sample is required (collection of blood from a vein, usually from the arm).

Procedure:

Collect 3 to 5ml blood samples in a red top tube or Gel Tube. Centrifuge the blood sample and separate the Plasma or serum. The serum is used for testing in the advanced analyzer and machinery.

Result:

Results are given in milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). lithium level should be between 0.6 and 1.2 mEq/L but not more than 1.2mEq/L. AT a level of 12mEq/L, lithium can start to cause a problem.