One Disadvantage to the Use of Lithium in the Treatment

question 136

Multiple Choice

One disadvantage to the use of lithium in the treatment of bipolar disorder is that

• A) it is effective only for patients less than 30 years old.
• B) it can be taken only by injections, not in pill form.
• C) its effectiveness decreases after a patient uses it for more than a month.
• D) slightly increased doses can produce serious side effects.

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Definitions:

Sympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic nervous system that prepares the body for quick response to stress or emergency (fight or flight response).

Acute Pain

Short-term pain that arises suddenly in response to a specific injury or illness and is usually sharp in quality.

Endorphins

Neurochemicals produced by the body that act as natural painkillers and mood enhancers, often released in response to stress, pain, or exercise.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

A chronic pain condition typically affecting an arm or a leg, developed after an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack.