Bipolar Disorder Exam Questions with Complete Solutions

What is the desired trough level for a patient taking lithium? A. 0.5-0.9 ng/L B. 1.5-2.5 mEq/L C. 1-2.5 mcg/mL D. 0.6-1.2 mEq/L E. 4-12 mcg/L - Answer-D. 0.6-1.2 mcg/L Most drugs are measured in mg/L, which is the same as mcg/mL, but lithium is measured in milliequivalents (mEq). Which of the following medications are used as mood stabilizers in the treatment of bipolar disorder? (Select ALL that apply.) A. Carbamazepine B. Lamotrigine C. Paroxetine D. Lithium E. Valproate - Answer-A. Carbamazepine B. Lamotrigine D. Lithium E. Valproate Antidepressants, like paroxetine, are not recommended in bipolar disorder unless the patient is taking a mood stabilizer. Antidepressants can induce or worsen a manic episode when used alone. HL is a 50-year-old female who is starting lithium as a mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder. Which of the following labs should be monitored? (Select ALL that apply.) A. AST and ALT B. Triglycerides and LDL C. BUN and serum creatinine D. TSH and FT4 E. Amylase and lipase - Answer-C. BUN and serum creatinine D. TSH and FT4 Thyroid and renal function must be monitored regularly during treatment with lithium.