Which laboratory value is primarily monitored in patients undergoing lithium therapy?

The primary laboratory value monitored in patients undergoing lithium therapy is serum creatinine and lithium levels. Maintaining the appropriate lithium level is crucial because it has a narrow therapeutic window, meaning the difference between an effective dose and a toxic dose is small. Regular monitoring allows healthcare providers to ensure that patients remain within the therapeutic range, which is important for both efficacy in treating conditions such as bipolar disorder and for minimizing the risk of toxicity, which can lead to serious side effects.

Additionally, monitoring serum creatinine is essential because lithium can impact renal function, especially with long-term use. Regular assessment of kidney function helps ensure that any adverse effects on the kidneys are detected early and managed appropriately, ensuring the safety and health of the patient during therapy.

Other laboratory values, such as serum glucose, complete blood count, and liver enzyme levels, do not have the same direct relevance to lithium therapy and its common complications, which is why they are not primarily monitored in this context.