LITHIUM DOSAGE

LithiumLithium for BipolarsLithium is a simple element found in rocks and water and also in small amounts in the human body. In medicine it is used to prevent or lessen the severity of wide mood swing episodes in people who suffer from bipolar affective disorder (manic depression). For treatment, lithium is used as a lithium salt, usually lithium carbonate The blood test measures the amount of lithium in your blood serum. From this test your doctor can determine the correct dosage for you. In the early part of treatment your blood is tested often until your doctor is sure of the proper dosage. From then on the tests will be done less frequently. If side effects should occur or your dosage needs to be changed for other reasons, it will be necessary to check your blood level more often until the proper level is reached again. Blood tests are taken 12 hours after your last dose of lithium. Most people find it convenient to take their last dose the evening before the test and their morning dose after the test. You can eat breakfast before 9 your blood test.