Lithium level
Drug LevelsNormal range
0.6–1.2 mEq/L (maintenance)
SI: 0.6–1.2 mmol/L
Critical high: > 2.0 mEq/L
☎ When to call
Level > 1.5 with symptoms or > 2.0 regardless — hold and call. Severe toxicity may need dialysis.
What you do
- Narrow window — toxicity: coarse tremor, ataxia, confusion, vomiting
- Dehydration raises the level — flag vomiting/diarrhea/fever on lithium patients
- Draw 12h post-dose
- Consistent salt and fluid intake is the teaching point
Causes of HIGH lithium level
Causes of LOW lithium level
Source: Pagana, Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests, 7th ed.; Lehne's PharmacologyReference only — verify against your facility's policy.
