Poisoning with lithium (lithium intoxication)

As mentioned above, the plasma concentration of lithium should not exceed 1.2 mmol/l. However, this is only a guideline value, as the principle of individual compatibility applies here as well. From a concentration of 1.6 mmol/l on, however, the probability of the occurrence of symptoms of poisoning is considered quite certain.

Symptoms of poisoning with lithium are Such poisoning can become very, very serious and in the worst case can lead to coma and also cardiovascular arrest and thus death. The possible causes of such poisoning are also important to know. Of course, accidental intake of pills or suicide attempts can be considered.

However, it is extremely important that patients and relatives know that lithium is directly linked to the sodium household (body salt). What does this mean? For example, if a person is on a low-sodium diet, this will lead to the body trying to preserve the salts it already contains.

As a result, the excretion of salts, especially sodium, will be reduced and so will the excretion of lithium, which in turn leads to an increase in plasma concentration and can lead to symptoms of poisoning. Further reasons that can lead to a preservation (i.e. the retention) of sodium and thus to an increase in lithium are thus: heavy sweating, diarrhoea, dehydration as well as fluid loss via e.g. burns etc.

In conclusion, it should be noted that serious and life-threatening side effects occur very rarely during the intake of lithium. If the first symptoms of poisoning in case of overdose are noticed in time, intervention can be taken.If other disturbing side effects occur, they are often dose-dependent and can be avoided by reducing the dose if the disease state permits. Furthermore, when undesirable effects of lithium occur, it must always be considered whether the effect and side effects are in an acceptable ratio, i.e. whether one can accept any side effects for a good treatment of the underlying disease.

Clearly rough hand trembling
Swindle
Indistinct language
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Gait disorders