I've been doing tons of research and all indications are that starting/taking Lithium needs to be closely monitored...
My doc called in the script before even taking initial blood tests... and has NO PLAN IN PLACE to test my blood levels. He just wants me to go ahead and start taking it. He said I could start by taking one or two per day (150mg).
Does this sound terribly unstructured? Are other docs this "casual" about the way they prescribe Lithium?
It is my understanding that there is a narrow therapeutic range, and there is no point in taking a dose so low that it is below therapeutic levels. I also understand the risks of lithium toxicity, and the importance of staying hydrated, avoiding NSAID's, limiting caffeine, etc. But I learned all this from my own research, my doc hasn't mentioned ANY of this to me!!!
I'm not asking for medical advice, just looking for perspective:
Am I over-reacting and being OCD by wanting a "plan" in place?
Or am I right to expect my pdoc to have some kind of a plan to follow and goal to aim for?
I haven't put one in my mouth yet because I don't feel comfortable with the situation so far!