Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

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What symptom can occur from excessive lithium in the system?

  1. Coughing fits

  2. Severe headaches

  3. Drowsiness and disorientation

  4. Increased heart rate

The correct answer is: Drowsiness and disorientation

Excessive lithium levels in the body can lead to symptoms such as drowsiness and disorientation. Lithium is a mood stabilizer commonly prescribed for bipolar disorder, and while it can be effective, it has a narrow therapeutic range, meaning that the difference between an effective dose and a toxic dose is small. When lithium levels become excessive, it can affect the central nervous system, leading to symptoms like confusion, sedation, and disorientation. Drowsiness in particular is a common side effect of lithium toxicity, as it can lead to decreased neurological activity and impaired cognitive functions. Disorientation suggests a level of neurological impairment, which aligns with the way lithium can influence brain chemistry at higher levels. This makes the option relevant and accurate in the context of what symptoms arise from lithium toxicity.