Question

A nurse is collecting a medication history from a client who has a new prescription for lithium. The nurse should identify that the client should discontinue which of the following over-the-counter medications?

A) Ibuprofen.
B) Diphenhydramine.
C) Acetaminophen.
D) Ranitidine.

Answer 1

The client with a new prescription for lithium should discontinue the use of Ibuprofen.

Step-by-step explanation:

Lithium is a mood-stabilizing medication commonly used in the treatment of bipolar disorder. Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can interfere with the renal excretion of lithium, leading to increased lithium levels in the blood. Elevated lithium levels can result in toxicity, posing a serious risk to the client's health.

The interaction between lithium and Ibuprofen occurs because both substances are excreted by the kidneys. Ibuprofen competes with lithium for renal excretion, and when taken together, it can cause a decrease in lithium elimination, leading to its accumulation in the body. This can result in symptoms of lithium toxicity, such as nausea, vomiting, tremors, and even more severe complications.

Healthcare providers need to be vigilant about potential drug interactions, especially when prescribing medications like lithium that have a narrow therapeutic range. In the case of lithium, avoiding concurrent use with NSAIDs like Ibuprofen is crucial to prevent adverse effects and ensure the safe and effective use of the mood-stabilizing medication.

In summary, the final answer is that the client should discontinue Ibuprofen, as its use can interfere with the renal excretion of lithium, leading to an increased risk of lithium toxicity.
The correct option is a.

Answer 2

The client should discontinue ibuprofen when taking lithium due to potential toxicity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should identify that the client should discontinue ibuprofen when taking lithium. This is because ibuprofen can increase the blood levels of lithium, leading to potential toxicity. It is important for the client to avoid using ibuprofen or any other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) while on lithium therapy.