Lithium Oral Side Effects — NDEB AFK MCQ

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HardPharmacologyLithium Oral Side EffectsNDEB AFK

A patient on lithium for bipolar disorder presents for dental treatment. Which potential oral side effect should the dentist monitor for?

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Correct answer: E — Xerostomia and altered taste

Lithium commonly causes xerostomia (dry mouth) and altered taste perception (metallic taste). Other systemic side effects relevant to dentistry include polyuria/polydipsia (nephrogenic diabetes insipidus), hand tremor (challenging for oral hygiene), and thyroid dysfunction. The narrow therapeutic index of lithium (0.6-1.2 mEq/L) means dehydration from prolonged dental procedures could elevate serum levels. NSAIDs (ibuprofen) reduce lithium renal clearance and can cause toxicity — acetaminophen is the preferred analgesic.

Reference: Neville – Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, 4th ed., 2016; Katzung – Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 15th ed., 2021