My psychiatrist called me today in response to my recent blood work.

He said my Lithium level is 0.56. The target is apparently between 0.60 and 0.75.

He said we could adjust my dosage accordingly but said if I felt good where it was we should keep things as they are. "I treat the patient not the blood work". Rather pleased me he would say that. But - big but - now I am over thinking this. Would I be better if I were to increase the dosage? I haven't been able to stop working this over and over in my head.

[Ariel Simcha]

I would say if the drug at it's present level seems okay then leave it for now. It can always be raised later.

So ask yourself? How do you feel?

(One of my favorite songs is Lithium by Evanescence.)

[Skylar_Slobbe]

Lithium however does generally become effective from dosage of 0.6-1.1. Im a Lithium user myself and I would increase the dosage. I wouldn't want to risk getting severely depressed or manic. But to each his own.

[Guiness187055]

.6 works great for me. If you want to raise your levels without taking more lithium drink less fluids.

[dolphingirl]

Are you having side effects at 0.56. If you're having side effects, but still receiving a good amount of benefit you may not want to increase your dose. If you aren't having much in the way of side effects you could try increasing the dose with your doctor.