What should be regularly monitored in patients taking Lithium?

Regular monitoring of kidney function is crucial for patients taking Lithium, primarily because Lithium is processed by the kidneys. Chronic use of Lithium can lead to renal impairment, and monitoring helps to prevent potential complications. Assessing kidney function includes checking creatinine levels and ensuring that the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) remains within acceptable ranges.

This monitoring is essential because Lithium can accumulate in the body if kidney function declines, leading to toxicity, which can have severe consequences for the patient. Monitoring ensures that the dosage can be adjusted as needed based on the patient's renal status, thereby maintaining effective treatment while minimizing risks.

While other parameters like heart rate, blood glucose, and electrolytes can also be relevant in the context of overall patient care, they are not as directly correlated with Lithium therapy as kidney function is.