What medications are contraindicated with lithium?

The most commonly prescribed drugs that have the potential to interact with lithium are ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists (sartans), diuretics, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

What are common side effects of lithium carbonate?

Drowsiness, dizziness, tiredness, increased thirst, increased frequency of urination, weight gain, and mildly shaking hands (fine tremor) may occur. These should go away as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

What medications cause lithium toxicity?

nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) indomethacin. selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors, such as celecoxib (Celebrex) acetaminophen (Tylenol)

What happens if you take lithium and ibuprofen?

When combined with lithium, NSAIDs can increase lithium levels in the blood resulting in an increased risk for serious adverse effects like confusion, tremor, slurred speech, and vomiting. Examples of non-prescription NSAIDs include: Ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®) Naproxen (Naprosyn®, Aleve®)

What electrolyte should be monitored with lithium?

Calcium levels: A serum calcium level should be checked yearly as lithium may cause hypoparathyroidism. Kidney tests: A BUN and creatinine (kidney function tests) should be drawn at the beginning of treatment, regularly during treatment, and if any symptoms of kidney disease become evident.

Is lithium a high risk medication?

High risk medicines: lithium.

What are the key nursing implementation considerations for patients receiving lithium?

Nursing considerations

• Give with caution and daily monitoring of serum lithium levels to patients with renal or CV disease, debilitation, or dehydration or life-threatening psychiatric disorders.
• Give drug with food or milk or after meals.

Does lithium affect heart rate?

The cardiac side-effects of lithium have been well documented, and may induce non-specific T-wave flattening, prolonged QT interval, sinus node dysfunction and also ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation.

What is lithium toxicity?

Lithium toxicity is another term for a lithium overdose. It occurs when you take too much lithium, a mood-stabilizing medication used to treat bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder. Lithium helps reduce episodes of mania and lowers the risk of suicide in people with these conditions.