Lithane

Alternative names

Eskalith; Lithium overdose; Lithobid; Lithonate; Lithotabs

Definition

Poisoning from an overdose of lithium.

Poisonous Ingredient

• lithium
  

Where Found

• Eskalith
  
• Lithobid
  
• Lithonate
  
• Lithane
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• body as a whole
  o slurred speech
  o weakness
  o incoordination
  o convulsions
  o tremors
  o increased thirst
  o increased urine output
  
• skin
  o rash
  
• gastrointestinal
  o diarrhea
  o vomiting
  
• heart and blood vessels
  o low blood pressure
  o rare abnormal rhythms
  
• nervous system
  o drowsiness
  o coma
  o seizures
  o stupor
  

Home Treatment
Contact Poison Control for appropriate treatment.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following:

• the patient's age, weight, and condition
  
• the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
  
• the time it was swallowed
  
• the amount swallowed
  
• it the medication was prescribed for the patient
  

Poison Control, or a local emergency number
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room

Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

• Induce emesis.
  
• Use dialysis.
  
• Monitor lithium blood levels.