Lithium is a metal that is quite widely used in industry. Lithium carbonate is prescribed for the treatment of manic-depressive psychosis. The action that lithium plays at the molecular level is unclear, but it appears to interact in the cell with sodium and potassium. The most common symptoms are drowsiness, thirst, diarrhea, behavior modification, and convulsions. On objective examination there is increased muscle tone, and protein is visible in the urine.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis of lithium poisoning is made by assaying blood levels, which are normally below 1.30. Treatment includes the use of diazepam if seizures occur. Peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis is safer and more effective.
Source: Roy Goulding’s Vademecum of Poisoning Therapy.
