Posted by Sunnely on July 30, 2000, at 20:19:57
In reply to Re: Olanzapine-Lithium and Emesis, posted by Jade on July 30, 2000, at 14:22:37
> I think he just caught a bug.
> So, what is the best strategy for a situation where one is ill. Only take a smaller dose of Lithium or to take full dose in the a.m., or skip to the next regular dose?
If indeed he has a flu ("bug"), this may spell trouble for someone on lithium. Flu syndrome can raise the blood level of lithium significantly. This in turn could lead to a clinical picture of being lithium toxic. Without first-hand knowledge of your son's condition, I can't tell you what to do with his lithium dose. However, if your son becomes unusually lethargic, weak, confused, tremolous, I strongly suggest that you hold that lithium dose and get that lithium level checked, ASAP. These are usual signs of lithium toxicity. Not trying to cause you undue alarm, but uncontrolled lithium toxicity can lead to more serious complications such as seizures, coma, and even death. At times, even when the condition is corrected, residual effects for example, continued incoordination, unsteadiness (cerebellar effects), and tremors, have been reported.
BTW, make sure he is adequately nourished and hydrated.
poster:Sunnely
thread:41733
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000729/msgs/41798.html