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The Recognition and Management of Lithium Intoxication

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Handbook of Lithium Therapy

Abstract

Lithium has a relatively narrow therapeutic range. Dosages necessary for therapy and prophylaxis are not very much lower than those that may produce poisoning, and occasionally patients who have been given lithium for a long time without signs of intolerance may accumulate lithium and develop intoxication. Lithium poisoning is a serious condition, which may lead to death or to permanent sequelae, but it does not develop haphazardly and without warning. Experience has shown that various circumstances involve extra risk of lithium poisoning and that countermeasures may be taken. Furthermore, lithium poisoning is usually heralded by particular signs and symptoms; if these are detected at an early stage, progression of the intoxication may be prevented.

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© 1980 MTP Press Limited

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Schou, M. (1980). The Recognition and Management of Lithium Intoxication. In: Johnson, F.N. (eds) Handbook of Lithium Therapy. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-7197-7_45

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-7197-7_45

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Dordrecht

  • Print ISBN: 978-94-011-7199-1

  • Online ISBN: 978-94-011-7197-7

  • eBook Packages: Springer Book Archive

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