Drugs Flashcards
(17 cards)
Lithium is the gold standard and neuroprotective treatment of choice for
Bipolar Disorder and manic episodes
Has evidence of anti-suicidal effects
Lithium toxicity level
1.5 mEq/L or higher
Side effects of lithium
hypothyroidism (Lithium blocks thyroid hormone release from thyroglobulin)
fine hand tremors
maculopapular rash
Gi upset
Diabetes insipidus
T wave inversions
leukocytosis
congenital heart defect
Fill in the blank: The therapeutic range for lithium levels in the blood is typically between _____ mEq/L.
0.6 and 1.2
Which of the following is a common side effect of lithium? A) Weight loss B) Increased thirst C) Hair loss
B) Increased thirst
What is a serious risk associated with lithium toxicity?
Kidney damage and neurological impairment.
What is the primary purpose of conducting baseline labs before initiating lithium treatment?
To ensure safety and efficacy of the treatment.
what disease and medications increase serum concentrations of drugs that are excreted by the kidneys, such as lithium and why?
Kidney disease
NSAIDS
thiazides (hydrochlorothiazide)
ACE inhibitors “prils”
*reduces renal clearance and increases serum concentration of drug causing toxicity
Signs of lithium toxicity
severe nausea and vomiting,
diarrhea,
confusion,
drowsiness,
muscle weakness,
heart palpitations,
coarse hand tremors,
ataxia (unsteadiness when walking/standing)
What labs should be checked before initiating lithium?
Thyroid panel, serum creatinine, BUN, pregnancy test, ECG (older than 50)
What electrolyte imbalance should be assessed before starting lithium treatment?
Sodium levels.
Why is sodium monitored in clients taking lithium carbonate?
kidneys treat lithium and sodium similarly which is the reason sodium depletion can significantly elevate lithium reabsorption
What two illnesses can increase lithium levels?
Dehydration and hyponatremia
serum creatine levels
0.6-1.2
BUN levels
10-20
What could indicate kidney disease in a urinalysis
4+ protein
