01
Front
Which baseline assessments are important before starting lithium?
Back
Check kidney function, electrolytes, calcium, thyroid function, and weight or BMI before starting lithium.
Free Online Flashcard Deck
6 Mood Stabilizers Free Online FlashCards
Study 6 Mood Stabilizers with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.
12 cards
02
Front
When is a lithium level generally checked after a dose change?
Back
Check the level about one week after starting or changing the dose, then weekly until stable.
03
Front
What concern is raised by vomiting, worsening tremor, unsteady walking, and confusion during lithium treatment?
Back
Possible lithium toxicity. Vomiting, worsening tremor, unsteady walking, and confusion warrant urgent medical assessment.
04
Front
Which medication changes can raise lithium concentrations?
Back
NSAIDs, thiazide diuretics, and ACE inhibitors or ARBs can raise lithium concentrations; contact the prescriber for advice.
05
Front
What serious adverse effect should be considered with valproate-related lethargy, confusion, and vomiting?
Back
Consider hyperammonemia with encephalopathy; a clinician may check an ammonia level.
06
Front
What routine safety concerns are monitored during valproate treatment?
Back
Monitor liver function and watch for blood-count or bleeding problems.
07
Front
What is the general response to a new rash after starting lamotrigine?
Back
Seek prompt medical advice; prescribing information advises stopping at the first sign unless the rash is clearly unrelated.
08
Front
What blood tests are recommended for carbamazepine monitoring?
Back
Obtain baseline blood counts and baseline and periodic liver-function tests.
09
Front
Which medicines are included among the mood stabilizers covered here?
Back
Mood stabilizers include lithium and medicines also used to treat seizures, such as valproate, carbamazepine, and lamotrigine.
10
Front
When may an ECG be appropriate before lithium treatment?
Back
An ECG may be appropriate for someone with cardiovascular disease or cardiovascular risk factors.
11
Front
What is the usual sampling timing for a lithium trough level?
Back
It is commonly drawn as a 12-hour trough: 12 hours after the last dose.
12
Front
How can dehydration affect lithium toxicity risk?
Back
Dehydration or a major change in fluid or salt intake can increase lithium toxicity risk.
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