Lithium is used as a mood stabiliser and in the treatment of mania and bipolar disorder. This e-learning module explains the theories about how lithium works, its impact on the kidneys, the need to follow national guidance and its use in comparison to sodium valproate as another mood stabiliser.
The module also covers the titration of lithium required to achieve a stable therapeutic level including explaining the need for blood tests to check the patient's suitability for treatment, obtain baseline levels, establish a stable dose and to ensure that levels remain stable throughout treatment.
Potential drug interactions affecting lithium serum levels and both short and long term side-effects are detailed and signs of toxicity explained.