Psychopharmacology mnemonic

Key adverse effects of lithium

The mnemonic

Lithium's four T's

What each word stands for

  • TTremor
  • TThirst and polyuria (nephrogenic diabetes insipidus)
  • TThyroid (hypothyroidism)
  • TTeratogenicity (Ebstein's anomaly)

Why it matters clinically

Guides counselling and monitoring of levels, renal and thyroid function.

Where it stops being reliable

Leaves out weight gain, leucocytosis and toxicity features such as coarse tremor and ataxia.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Psychopharmacology mnemonic?

Lithium's four T's. It helps you recall: Key adverse effects of lithium.

What does "T" stand for?

Teratogenicity (Ebstein's anomaly)

What are all the parts of the Lithium's four T's mnemonic?

T: Tremor; T: Thirst and polyuria (nephrogenic diabetes insipidus); T: Thyroid (hypothyroidism); T: Teratogenicity (Ebstein's anomaly).

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Psychopharmacology in Psychiatry.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Leaves out weight gain, leucocytosis and toxicity features such as coarse tremor and ataxia.

How is this useful clinically?

Guides counselling and monitoring of levels, renal and thyroid function.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Psychiatry question about Psychopharmacology.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.