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How do we treat lithium toxicity?

User Avladov
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Final answer:

Treatment of lithium toxicity requires immediate supportive care, potentially including gastric lavage or activated charcoal, enhanced elimination through hydration, agents to alter urinary pH, and hemodialysis in severe cases.

Step-by-step explanation:

The subject of this question is Medicine, specifically related to the treatment of lithium toxicity. Lithium toxicity can occur as a result of excessive intake or diminished clearance of the drug lithium, which is commonly used for the treatment of bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. To treat lithium toxicity, immediate intervention is often required. The first step in treating acute lithium toxicity includes supportive care and may involve gastric lavage or the use of activated charcoal if the lithium was ingested recently. Measures to enhance elimination of lithium include hydration and using agents that alter the urinary pH to promote lithium excretion. In severe cases, or if the patient has significant kidney dysfunction, hemodialysis may be necessary to speed up lithium removal. It is important to monitor the patient's neurological status, kidney function, and electrolytes throughout the treatment process.

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