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Why must lithium levels be carefully monitored in individuals who take this medication?

User Antti Kuosmanen
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15 votes

Answer:

Lithium levels must be carefully monitored in individuals who take this medication because lithium can be toxic at high levels.

When taken in high doses or for an extended period of time, lithium can build up in the body and cause a condition called lithium toxicity.

Symptoms of lithium toxicity can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and changes in mental status. In severe cases, lithium toxicity can lead to coma and even death.

Therefore, it is important for individuals who take lithium to have their lithium levels regularly monitored by a healthcare provider to ensure that they are within a safe range.

This can help prevent the development of lithium toxicity and other potentially serious side effects.

Step-by-step explanation:

User Ben Butterworth
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