Which lab value should be monitored in patients taking lithium?

Serum lithium levels should be monitored in patients taking lithium due to the narrow therapeutic index of this medication. Lithium is primarily used in the treatment of bipolar disorder, and maintaining an appropriate serum level is critical for ensuring efficacy while minimizing the risk of toxicity. Monitoring allows healthcare providers to adjust doses as necessary and to detect any fluctuations that could lead to adverse effects.

Lithium levels are typically measured regularly, especially when initiating therapy or following changes in dosage, and can be affected by factors such as hydration status, renal function, and interactions with other medications. Elevated lithium levels can result in toxicity, leading to symptoms such as nausea, tremors, confusion, and in severe cases, neurological impairment. Therefore, maintaining the correct serum concentration is essential for both therapeutic effectiveness and patient safety.