Lithium Level Interpreter: Use for rapid assessment of serum lithium levels. Chronic toxicity carries higher risk at lower levels than acute ingestion.
mmol/L
Guidelines & Evidence
Clinical Details
Section 1
When to Use
When to Use
Monitoring serum lithium levels in patients treated for bipolar disorder
Evaluating suspected lithium toxicity (acute, acute-on-chronic, or chronic)
Determining the need for hemodialysis or aggressive supportive care
Screening for drug-drug interactions (e.g., NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, diuretics) that may elevate lithium levels
Section 2
Formula & Logic
Therapeutic Range
The standard therapeutic range for maintenance is 0.6–1.0 mmol/L. For acute mania, levels up to 1.2 mmol/L may be targeted.
Toxicity Thresholds
1.5–2.5 mmol/L
Mild to Moderate Toxicity
2.5–3.5 mmol/L
Severe Toxicity
> 3.5 mmol/L
Life-threatening / Hemodialysis Indicated
Acute vs. Chronic
Chronic toxicity often presents at lower serum levels than acute toxicity and carries a higher risk of permanent neurological damage (SILENT syndrome).
Section 3
Evidence Appraisal
Management Guidelines
Lithium Poisoning.
Baird-Gunning J et al. • J Intensive Care Med.. 2017;32(4):249-63. Provided the standardized thresholds for dialysis and supportive management.
EXTRIP Guideline: Hemodialysis in Lithium Poisoning.
Robert M et al. • Clin J Am Soc Nephrol.. 2015;Primary evidence for hemodialysis indication based on level and clinical status.