Lithium
Clinical Biochemistry
Sample and container requirements
Serum
Minimum volume required
Special requirements
None
Patient preparation
Collect specimen 12 hours after the last dose
Sample viability
Turnaround time
This assay is run throughout the day and night. The in-lab turnaround time is normally less than 24 hours.
Reference range
0.4 – 1.0 mmol/L (Source: Pathology Harmony Recommendations)
Clinical guidance
Lithium is used in the treatment of manic depression psychosis. It has a very narrow therapeutic range and is monitored in patients on lithium therapy. Please refer to LabTestsOnlineUK to learn more about lithium. https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/lithium
Notes
Images to go here
This information was last updated on 19 August 2026