What should my lithium level be

Note that each number in parentheses [1, 2, 3, etc. A little too much and you may face serious side effects. For this reason, routine lithium blood level checks are a must.

Read on to learn more about lithium testing and what levels are considered normal. Lithium is a chemical element and alkali, lightweight, silvery metal [ 1 ].

It is found at very low levels in the body. Sources of dietary lithium include fruits, vegetables, grains oats , and seafood shrimp, scallops. In some areas, lithium is also found at significant levels in drinking water [ 5 ]. Doctors have long known that lithium is a mood stabilizer.

It is one of the oldest drugs for treating bipolar disorder — and is still the preferred treatment to this day [ 6 , 7 ]. Prescription lithium has a narrow therapeutic window, meaning its blood concentrations need to be within an extremely tight range for it to be effective and safe [ 6 ].

Even slightly higher levels can cause side effects. On the other hand, if lithium levels dip too low then bipolar symptoms may reemerge. This is why anyone taking lithium medications requires regular testing [ 6 , 8 ]. Lithium levels are usually checked about days after starting a new dose to allow blood levels to stabilize [ 6 , 9 ].

Your doctor may also test your lithium levels if you start taking other meds that can interfere with lithium. Lithium testing requires a blood sample. Ideally, you should undergo a blood draw right before the next scheduled dose, hours after your last dose [ 6 ].

If you take lithium, make sure you know the signs of an overdose and keep the number for poison control handy in your phone. Contact your doctor if you have any concerns about medication or food interactions that might occur while you take lithium. You may not even realize that you're buying into these damaging falsehoods that are spreading the stigma of bipolar disorder.

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Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. The Facts About Lithium Toxicity. Medically reviewed by Dena Westphalen, Pharm. What are the symptoms of lithium toxicity?

The therapeutic level of lithium is usually between 0. Toxicity begins at around 1. Initial symptoms of toxicity often include a significant worsening of the tremor, nausea, diarrhea, and blurry vision.

As levels get higher, symptoms of being unsteady, slurred speech, muscle twitches, and weakness, and confusion appear. A level of 2. Symptoms can include severe neurological signs such as delirium and unconsciousness. Heart arrhythmias may also occur, which if, untreated, can be fatal.

Other tests such as blood chemistries and an EKG may be needed depending on many factors. There are several ways in which the risk of side effects and toxicity can be reduced. One is to minimize the dose so that blood levels are on the lower side of the therapeutic window.

The timing of the dose may also be helpful. Certainly, monitoring of blood levels is important on a regular basis as well as if any new symptoms should arise. In some cases, medications can be used to reduce certain side effects. Lithium can be an excellent drug for people with bipolar disorder and can sometimes be a lifesaver, as it has been found to decrease the rate of suicide, a significant risk among people with the condition.

If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at for support and assistance from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database. Careful monitoring of levels is critical to reducing the potential for toxicity and its consequences.

Side effects are common, and many of these are more annoying than dangerous. Lab tests must be monitored to minimize the risk of kidney and thyroid dysfunction. With monitoring, however, and a careful understanding of the early symptoms of toxicity, many people have been able to enjoy the benefits of this medication without significant risks.

Dealing with racing thoughts? Always feeling tired? Our guide offers strategies to help you or your loved one live better with bipolar disorder.

Sign up for our newsletter and get it free. Your test results may not mean you have a problem. Ask your healthcare provider what your test results mean for you. For lithium to be effective, your level should be between 0. Lithium has a very narrow range where it is effective and nontoxic. At a level of 1. If your levels are too high, you could get lithium poisoning and need treatment right away. Too much lithium can be fatal. If your levels are too low, the medicine may not help your condition.

Keep a diary of your lithium levels and the blood-level range that provides you with the best protection and fewest side effects. Bring this information with you to your appointments. This information can help your healthcare provider adjust your dose. Levels that are higher or lower may also mean you have problems with your heart or kidneys.

The test is done with a blood sample. A needle is used to draw blood from a vein in your arm or hand.