Dr. Buchi Nwaokolo DNP

11/03/2025

Lithium toxicity isn't just random. There's usually a reason, often tied to how your medications interact. Knowing this can help you stay safe and healthy.

10/18/2025

Patients may experience cognitive dulling, describing it as feeling slow or foggy. Motor issues can also arise, like mild coordination or balance problems. It's important to monitor these mild symptoms without immediately discontinuing medication.

10/17/2025

Lithium can interfere with thyroid hormone production and calcium regulation, potentially leading to bone loss, kidney stones, and mood changes. It may also damage kidney tubules, causing decreased ADH response and gradual decline, even with normal levels. Have you experienced these issues?

10/17/2025

Lithium can cause nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort as blood levels rise, due to direct irritation of the GI tract. These early side effects are annoying but not dangerous. Have you felt this?

10/16/2025

Lithium can cause weight gain due to fluid retention and increased appetite. It can also lead to hypothyroidism by blocking thyroid hormone synthesis and release. Regular monitoring is essential. Tag a friend who gets it!

10/16/2025

Lithium can cause fine hand tremors by interfering with neuronal signaling, but coarse tremors are a red flag. It can also reduce kidney responsiveness to antidiuretic hormone, leading to increased thirst and bathroom trips. Have you experienced these side effects?

10/15/2025

Lithium can cause nephrogenic diabetes insipidus because it damages kidney cells, leading to symptoms like polyuria and dilute urine. Long-term exposure may lead to chronic kidney disease. Regular monitoring of kidney function is essential when someone is on lithium. Have you learned something new today?

10/15/2025

When managing individuals on lithium, it's important to pay attention to the future. Always order an ECG for patients over 40 or with a cardiac history and continue to monitor their kidneys. Cardiac and renal risks must be part of a long-term safety plan.

10/14/2025

Lithium use in pregnancy can cause Epstein-Barr anomaly during the first trimester. In later pregnancy, it can cause floppy infant syndrome. Before starting lithium, do an hCG test to mitigate complications. For safer pregnancy, lamotrigine is an alternative.

10/14/2025

A 29-year-old woman on lithium reports fatigue, weight gain, and dry skin. Her TSH is elevated, indicating lithium-induced hypothyroidism. Instead of stopping the medication, the best course is to start levothyroxine or consult endocrinology to maintain mood stability. Have you seen this scenario before?

10/13/2025

10/13/2025

Lithium can be like that friend with quirks. Some side effects are just part of its personality, while others require intervention. Knowing the difference is key, especially on exam day. This review breaks down the high-yield content for the boards.