Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

In the acute phase of mania, what is the typical dosage of Lithium to achieve an optimal response?

1. 300-600mg bid

2. 600-900mg bid

3. 900-1200mg bid

4. 1000-1500mg bid

The correct answer is: 600-900mg bid

In the acute phase of mania, the typical dosage of Lithium to achieve an optimal response generally falls within the range of 600-900 mg taken twice daily. This dosing is based on the pharmacological properties of Lithium, which is used to stabilize mood and manage manic episodes. Lithium necessitates careful titration to reach therapeutic levels while minimizing side effects. In acute mania, initiating treatment with a higher dose helps quickly stabilize the patient, with the possibility of adjusting the dose based on serum levels and patient response. The range of 600-900 mg is considered appropriate for achieving effective therapeutic levels while monitoring for toxicity, which is crucial given lithium's narrow therapeutic window. Doses above this range, such as those proposed in other options, are typically reserved for more severe cases or for patients who have shown a suboptimal response to standard doses. Therefore, the selected option reflects a well-established clinical guideline for Lithium administration in managing acute mania.