LITHIUM
The lithium test is used to measure and monitor the amount of lithium in the blood so that a healthcare practitioner can determine whether the drug blood concentration is within the range that will adequately treat an individual's bipolar disorder (therapeutic range). The test may be used to measure
blood levels every few days when a person first begins taking lithium to help adjust the dose & reach the desired blood level and may also be
used at regular intervals or as needed to monitor blood concentrations. If a person starts taking additional medications, a healthcare practitioner
may order one or more lithium tests to judge their effect, if any, on lithium levels. Lithium tests may also be ordered if toxicity is suspected.
