Lithium overdose Flashcards
1
Q
Describe lithium poisoning?
A
- Unintentional overdose is rare
- More likely to be therapeutic dose reaction with diuretics or NSAIDs
2
Q
Describe the clinical features of Lithium poisoning?
A
- Diarrhoea
- Polyria
- Dizziness, tremor
- Drowsiness delirium, renal failure
3
Q
Descriibe the clinicial features of severe lithium poisoning?
A
- Coma
- Seizures
- Heart block
- Renal failure
4
Q
Describe the management of lithium overdose?
A
- Activated charcoal is ineffective
- Early gastric lavage
- Tablets may be to large for aspiration via lavage tube
- Whole bowel irrigation after substantial overdose
- IV lfuids
- Haemodialysis for severe toxicity (>4mmol/L)
- Multiple sessions reauired due to rebound increases
5
Q
What is the normal therapeutiic range for lithium?
A
0.4 - 1 mmol/L
6
Q
What is acute on chronic lithium poisoning?
A
Acute overdose in patients already taking chronic lithium therapy
