Which supplement is listed as a potential interaction with lithium?

Which supplement is listed as a potential interaction with lithium?

• A. St. John's wort
• B. Vitamin C
• C. Calcium
• D. Omega-3

Answer: (A)

Herbal supplements can interact with lithium, and one known interaction comes from St. John’s wort. This herb can boost serotonin activity in the brain and also induce liver enzymes, which can alter the effects and metabolism of other medications. When combined with a mood stabilizer like lithium, this serotonergic boost can increase the risk of mood instability or serotonin-related adverse effects, making St. John’s wort a potential interaction to watch for. The other options—Vitamin C, calcium, and omega-3—do not have as clear or significant interactions with lithium in typical pharmacology references.

Herbal supplements can interact with lithium, and one known interaction comes from St. John’s wort. This herb can boost serotonin activity in the brain and also induce liver enzymes, which can alter the effects and metabolism of other medications. When combined with a mood stabilizer like lithium, this serotonergic boost can increase the risk of mood instability or serotonin-related adverse effects, making St. John’s wort a potential interaction to watch for. The other options—Vitamin C, calcium, and omega-3—do not have as clear or significant interactions with lithium in typical pharmacology references.