Test library
Lithium Monitoring Test
A lithium level blood test measures the amount of lithium in the bloodstream to help confirm that medication concentrations remain within the expected therapeutic range rather than rising toward toxic levels.
Order Lithium Level Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Lithium Level Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $45
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The Lithium Level Test is a blood test that measures how much lithium is circulating in the bloodstream. Lithium is a prescription medicine used in some mental health conditions, and its concentration must stay inside a narrow window: too little may not help, while too much can cause serious side effects. The test supports routine monitoring and evaluation when symptoms suggest the level may be off. Results are interpreted by the prescribing healthcare provider together with the person's clinical picture.
What this test measures
Lithium is prescribed for certain mood and psychiatric conditions, and it has a narrow therapeutic window compared with many other medicines. Because of that, blood levels are checked periodically to help keep concentrations in the intended range. The test measures total lithium in serum or plasma from a routine blood draw, and the result is evaluated against the target range established for the individual person.
Only a small blood sample is needed. Collection timing matters: orders often specify a sample drawn a set number of hours after the most recent dose, so the laboratory and the prescriber usually coordinate the draw time. Alongside the lithium level itself, monitoring commonly includes kidney and thyroid markers, because lithium therapy can affect those systems over time.
People taking lithium may be tested on a regular schedule, after a change in their treatment plan, or when they notice symptoms such as tremor, dizziness, confusion, or stomach upset. The result is not interpreted on its own; the prescriber reviews it with kidney function, thyroid function, hydration status, and other medicines. Anyone with questions about their lithium level should speak with the healthcare provider managing their treatment.
- Lithium (serum or plasma)
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Chloride
- Creatinine
- Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)
- Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
- Calcium
- Free thyroxine (T4) when included
Why people order this test
- Monitor lithium concentrations during ongoing treatment
- Check a level after a change in the treatment plan
- Look for a value that may fall outside the intended range
- Assess kidney function alongside lithium monitoring
- Assess thyroid function alongside lithium monitoring
- Investigate symptoms that may relate to lithium levels
How to prepare
No fasting is usually required. The timing of the blood draw relative to the last dose matters, so follow the laboratory's scheduling instructions and the prescriber's direction about when the sample should be collected. A standard venous blood sample is used.
Understanding your results
Results are typically available within one to three business days. The prescriber compares the value with the target range for the individual and decides whether any change is needed. A result outside the range does not by itself mean harm, but it usually prompts a review.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a lithium level test used for?
It measures the concentration of lithium in the blood to help monitor treatment and keep the level within the intended range for that person.
Does the test require fasting?
Fasting is usually not needed, but the timing of the draw relative to the last dose does matter. Follow the laboratory's instructions for your appointment.
Why do I need repeat lithium tests?
Lithium levels can shift with changes in dose, hydration, kidney function, and other factors. Repeat testing helps the prescriber confirm the level stays in the target range.
Can I stop taking lithium if my level looks normal?
No. A level in range often means the treatment plan is working as intended. Any change to medication should be discussed with the prescribing healthcare provider.
What else is checked with a lithium level?
Kidney and thyroid markers are commonly monitored as well, because long-term lithium therapy can affect those systems. The exact panel depends on the order.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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