Lithium concentration in saliva
This test measures the amount of lithium, a medication used to treat certain mental health conditions, in your saliva. It helps monitor your drug levels to ensure they stay within safe ranges.
["This test helps doctors check if your lithium levels are properly controlled for your treatment plan."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43176-7
- Short code
- Lithium Sal-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Lithium Sal-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.6
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 1.6 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking lithium medication to manage conditions like bipolar disorder or severe depression. Saliva testing is less invasive than blood tests and can provide a quick snapshot of your lithium exposure.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a small saliva sample, often collected by spitting into a container. It’s quick and painless, similar to a standard urine or blood sample collection.
How the Test Results Are Used
Results help your doctor adjust your lithium dose if needed. Saliva levels can reflect recent medication intake, offering a real-time check compared to blood tests, which measure levels from hours or days prior.
What the Results Mean
While reference ranges vary by lab and individual factors, high levels may indicate overdose or poor absorption, while low levels could suggest insufficient medication. Always discuss results with your provider.
Reference range
Therapeutic: 0.6-1.2 mmol/LN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Lithium is a critical medication for stabilizing mood in conditions like bipolar disorder. Saliva testing provides a convenient way to monitor levels, reducing risks of toxicity or inadequate treatment. Regular checks help balance effectiveness and safety.
Short name
Saliva Lithium Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
Can I eat or drink before the test?
What if my results are outside the normal range?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy