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Lithium and NSAID — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateDrug InteractionsLithium and NSAIDGPhC CRA

A patient taking lithium for bipolar disorder asks to buy ibuprofen for dental pain. He has not had a lithium level checked for several months. What is the most important interaction to flag?

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Correct answer: A — Ibuprofen can increase lithium concentrations and toxicity risk

NSAIDs can reduce renal lithium clearance and increase lithium levels. Lithium toxicity can be serious, with gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms. Safer analgesia and prescriber or dental review should be considered.

Reference: BNF