Use:
This test measures the amount of lithium in the blood.
Lithium as lithium carbonate is used as a psychoactive agent in the treatment of manic depressive disorders. Lithium therapy demands daily monitoring of serum lithium levels until the proper dose schedule is determined. Abnormal high levels never occur suddenly. It takes several days to a week before full-blown symptoms develop, an individual will experience lethargy, drowsiness, tremor, muscle twitching, difficulty speaking, loss of appetite along with vomiting or diarrhea.
Lithium levels in blood may be elevated during treatment with lithium. Long-term use of lithium/excess serum levels can cause damage to kidneys and thyroid making monitoring necessary.
Recommended For:
Monitoring during treatment with lithium, detecting toxicity with lithium.
Special Notes:
No special preparation is necessary prior to blood sample collection.
Tests Included:
Estimated Turn Around For Results:
2-10 Business Days
For an exact turnaround time for results, please contact us at Personalabs and we will contact the lab on your behalf as turnaround times vary depending on testing location or lab testing provider.
