Lithium And Its Effects On Bipolar Disorder - 1394 Words

1. Provide a rationale for the use of Lithium Carbonate that Ellen is currently prescribed. Lithium Carbonate is the most commonly drug that is prescribed for treating bipolar disorder (May, Hickey, Triantis, Palazidou, Kyriacou, 2015). It works as a mood stabilizer that significantly reduces excessive behaviors and suicidal tendencies. However, the way that lithium exerts its impact on mood is still unknown. One study suggests that key of lithium therapeutic actions are the neuroprotective effects (Malhi, Tanious, Das, Coulston, Berk 2013). For instance, lithium has been demonstrated to decrease the oxidative stress that involves in multiple episodes of mania and depression. Other study recommends that lithium stabilize electrical†¦show more content†¦Additionally, lithium users are not higher rates of chronic kidney illness related to bipolar disorder (Rej et al., 2015). 2. Identify three (3) potential major side effects for Ellen’s currently prescribed Lithium Carbonate. Provide two (2) nursing management interventions for each of the three (3) chosen major side effects. Although the effectiveness of lithium in management of bipolar disorder is well established, health professionals should be aware of the potential major side effects related to long-term lithium treatment. Hand tremor is one of common adverse reactions that might occur during the first few days of lithium treatment. This side effect should decrease briefly after beginning of lithium administration. However, if it persists, the dosage of lithium needs to be reduce or cessation of the administration. Fine tremor of the hands is less likely if lithium is administered slowly, smaller doses several times a day rather than quickly. Additionally, the healthcare provider should discuss with the patients about possible adverse reactions when taking lithium therapy. Also, the patients should be warned not to discontinue taking the drug or modify the dosage on their own. In addition, lithium treatment may lead to weight gain. A recent study has showed that patients receiving Lithium are more frequent weight gain compared to those receiving placebo (Murru et al., 2015). This association