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Lithium & Liver Function

Lithium has been used as a medication treatment for individuals suffering from manic and bipolar disorders since the 1950's, according to Web Elements. And while lithium does appear naturally in the body in minimal amounts, too high a level can significantly impair bodily function. It's effects on the liver can be particularly harmful.

  1. Lithium

    • Lithium is a naturally occurring material, listed as number three on the Periodic Table of Elements, according to Web Elements. It was first discovered in 1817 by Johan August Arfvedson as a component of petalite ore mineral. It's administered as a salt compound when used in the treatment of manic and bipolar disorders. Lithium is the lightest of all the metals and is classified as an alkali metal. Overall, it serves no biological function in terms of maintaining the natural balance within the environment, or within living organisms.

    Liver Function

    • As the largest organ of the body, the liver also functions as a bile-secreting gland that helps regulate digestion and waste elimination, according to MedicineNet. The liver also regulates many other functions in the body, some of which include protein, carbohydrate and fat metabolism processes. It also plays a vital role in removing toxins from the body as well enabling the intestines to absorb fats and vitamins. Lithium's primary effects on the liver have to do with its chemical make-up as a salt compound.

    Lithium Effects

    • Sodium levels in the body affect a person's tendency towards manic behavior, according to Drugs.com. The use of Lithium in the treatment of manic and bipolar disorders works to reduce or eliminate manic episodes and stabilize a person's body chemistry. In terms of biological function, Lithium is classified as a slightly toxic agent that can create chemical imbalances in the body, according to Web Elements. When toxic levels are present, side effects like muscular weakness, fatigue, lack of coordination and vomiting can occur.

    Blood Tests

    • The risk of developing toxic levels of Lithium in the body depends on a person's individual body chemistry. In treatment, the most effective dosage is reached when levels fall just below toxic levels, according to Psychiatric Nursing. To prevent the risk of liver damage, individuals must take a series of liver panel tests that check for Lithium levels in the blood. Scheduled ECG and renal function tests are also necessary when on this drug, according to Lab Tests Online. When first starting out, initial blood tests are taken every three to four days for a period of one month. Follow-up testing is then performed every one to two months thereafter.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Side effect symptoms are typically the first sign of elevated Lithium blood levels. As Lithium's salt component poses the greatest risk for toxicity, drinking lots of fluid can help prevent excess levels from building up in the body, according to Drugs.com. When on the drug, heavy exercise and excessive sweating can quickly dehydrate the body, which further increases the likelihood of excess blood levels. In some cases, drowsiness may appear as a non-threatening side effect of the drug, so individuals may want to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery.

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