Question

A 28-year-old female patient, who is prescribed lithium carbonate for bipolar affective disorder, is planning a pregnancy. What is the most crucial piece of advice regarding her lithium therapy during preconception counselling, according to NICE CG192?

Accepted Answer

Discuss the risks and benefits of continuing lithium, and if continued, maintain dose in the lower end of the therapeutic range and plan for increased monitoring.

Answer

Lithium must be stopped immediately prior to conception and throughout pregnancy.

Answer

Lithium can be continued safely throughout pregnancy at the current dose.

Answer

Switch to sodium valproate as it is safer in pregnancy.

Answer

Switch to an atypical antipsychotic like olanzapine.

Practice question

A 28-year-old female patient, who is prescribed lithium carbonate for bipolar affective disorder, is planning a pregnancy. What is the most crucial piece of advice regarding her lithium therapy during preconception counselling, according to NICE CG192?