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Lithium and NSAID — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardDrug InteractionsLithium and NSAIDGPhC CRA

A patient stabilised on lithium asks to buy ibuprofen for dental pain. He has not had a lithium level checked for three months. What is the most important interaction to flag?

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Correct answer: B — Ibuprofen can increase lithium levels and toxicity risk

NSAIDs can reduce renal lithium clearance and increase serum lithium concentrations. Toxicity can be serious and may present with tremor, diarrhoea or confusion. Paracetamol is often a safer OTC analgesic option if suitable.

Reference: BNF