Lithium & Seizures
Lithium is most commonly used to treat bipolar disorder by helping to reduce the severity of manic episodes. As with many medications, it is possible to overdose on Lithium. One symptom of overdose is convulsive seizures.
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Taking Lithium
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It is important to take the exact dose of Lithium that is prescribed by your doctor, at the proper times. Ingesting more than is prescribed can lead to an overdose.
Lithium Dosage
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An adult typically takes 300-600 milligrams of lithium for the treatment of manic episodes, and for general maintenance of bipolar disorder. Any more than 600 milligrams taken at one time can lead to an overdose.
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Seizures From Lithium
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Convulsive overdose symptoms range from mild "fine resting tremors" and moderate "twitches and jerks," to full seizures. Ingestion of more than five grams of lithium can be fatal.
Overdose Treatment
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When suffering from severe lithium intoxication, patients will undergo hemodialysis, a process whereby the blood is filtered mechanically.
Preventing Overdose
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If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. However, if the next dosage time is close, the missed dose should be skipped, with a resumption of the regular dosage schedule.
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References
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