Massachusetts Pharmacy Technician License Practice Test

What is the usual dosage recommendation for LITHOBID (lithium carbonate)?

1. Once daily

2. Twice daily

3. Three times daily

4. As needed

The correct answer is: Twice daily

Lithobid, a brand name for lithium carbonate, is typically prescribed for the treatment of bipolar disorder. The usual recommended dosage for lithium carbonate is often structured around a twice-daily regimen. This dosing schedule helps maintain stable serum concentrations of the medication, which is crucial for its effectiveness in mood stabilization and minimizing side effects. Lithium's pharmacokinetics require consistent blood levels, and administering it twice daily can achieve a more even distribution of the drug in the body compared to a once daily or as-needed dosage. The twice-daily dosage also allows for adjustments based on the individual patient's response and blood level monitoring, which are essential for safe and effective treatment. For comparison, once daily administration might lead to fluctuating levels that could affect the efficacy and safety of the treatment, while as-needed dosing is inappropriate for a medication that requires consistent therapeutic levels to manage chronic conditions effectively.