Washington, D.C. Lithium Poison Lawyers

Lithium is a prescription medication that has been widely used for over a century to treat mental health conditions and mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder and schizoaffective disorder. Lithium affects neurotransmitter activity in the brain, helping to stabilize moods.

While highly effective, lithium poses serious risks if not properly monitored. Healthcare providers must regularly monitor lithium levels through blood tests to keep the medication within a therapeutic range of 0.5 to 0.8 mmol/L for long-term treatment. Levels above 4.0 mmol/L are critically dangerous and can result in coma or death. Improper prescribing, dosage, or lack of monitoring can lead to lithium toxicity, a life-threatening condition affecting the kidneys, nervous system, and other vital organs.

What Is Lithium Toxicity?

Lithium is absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract and distributed throughout the body to exert its therapeutic effects. However, lithium does not break down naturally in the body and is excreted largely unchanged by the kidneys. If the kidneys fail to excrete lithium properly, it can accumulate to toxic levels. Without prompt treatment, lithium toxicity can cause severe and life-threatening complications.

What Are the Types of Lithium Toxicity?

Lithium toxicity is classified into three types based on how it develops and the underlying causes:

• Chronic Toxicity: Develops over time due to long-term use, poor monitoring, or kidney issues that prevent effective lithium clearance.
• Acute Toxicity: Results from consuming large doses in a short period, such as an overdose or improper dosing. Acute toxicity can lead to symptoms like seizures, muscle rigidity, and loss of consciousness.
• Acute-On-Chronic Toxicity: The most dangerous type, occurring due to a sudden increase in lithium levels in someone already on long-term treatment. Triggers include dehydration, illness, or drug interactions. Without immediate treatment, this condition can result in seizures, kidney failure, or cardiac arrhythmias.

What Are the Risk Factors for Lithium Toxicity?

Several factors can increase the risk of lithium toxicity, including:

• Age: Older adults are more susceptible due to decreased kidney function and potential drug interactions.
• Dehydration: Reduces the body’s ability to excrete lithium effectively.
• Kidney Dysfunction: Impaired kidneys cannot clear lithium efficiently, leading to accumulation.
• Improper Dosage or Overdose: Prescribing or taking too much lithium directly leads to toxicity.
• Poor Monitoring: Failing to perform regular blood tests increases the risk of undetected toxicity.
• Drug Interactions: Medications such as diuretics, NSAIDs, and ACE inhibitors can interfere with lithium levels.

What Are the Symptoms of Lithium Toxicity?

Symptoms vary depending on the severity and duration of elevated lithium levels but can lead to permanent damage if untreated. Common symptoms include:

• Agitation or restlessness
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Persistent diarrhea
• Fatigue or weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Unsteady movements (ataxia)
• Seizures
• Tremors or shaking
• Coma or loss of consciousness

What Injuries Are Caused by Lithium Toxicity?

Lithium toxicity can cause severe and long-lasting injuries, including:

• Cognitive impairment
• Kidney failure or chronic kidney disease
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Movement disorders
• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Death in extreme cases

Many of these injuries require lifelong care, leading to substantial medical expenses and a diminished quality of life.

How Is Lithium Toxicity Diagnosed and Treated?

Doctors use several methods to diagnose lithium toxicity, including:

• Blood Tests: These check lithium levels and kidney function. Lithium must be kept within the therapeutic range of 0.5 to 0.8 mmol/L for long-term treatment. Levels above 4.0 mmol/L are critically dangerous.
• CT Scans or MRIs: To rule out other causes of symptoms.
• Physical and Neurological Evaluations: To detect signs like tremors or mental confusion.

Treatment varies depending on severity and may include:

• Discontinuing lithium to prevent further toxicity.
• Administering intravenous (IV) fluids to flush excess lithium and restore electrolyte balance.
• Performing hemodialysis in severe cases, especially when kidney function is compromised.
• Treating symptoms such as seizures or cardiac issues with appropriate medications.

How Is Lithium Toxicity Caused by Medical Malpractice?

Lithium toxicity caused by medical malpractice occurs when healthcare providers fail to adhere to proper standards of care. Common examples include:

• Failing to conduct regular blood tests to maintain lithium within the therapeutic range.
• Ignoring blood test results showing elevated lithium levels.
• Prescribing excessive dosages or failing to adjust for at-risk patients.
• Overlooking dangerous drug interactions.
• Failing to educate patients about the symptoms and risks of lithium toxicity.

What Compensation Can I Seek for Lithium Toxicity Due to Medical Malpractice?

Victims of lithium toxicity caused by medical negligence may seek damages for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term care costs

How Can a Lawyer Help in Lithium Poisoning Cases?

Navigating a lithium poisoning case requires a unique combination of legal and medical knowledge, which is precisely what Dr. Michael M. Wilson offers. As both a licensed attorney and a medical doctor, Dr. Wilson brings unparalleled insight into the complexities of medical malpractice cases. This dual background allows him to analyze cases from legal and medical perspectives, identify errors that other lawyers might overlook, and build a robust case for his clients.

When you work with Dr. Wilson and his team, you benefit from their understanding of how healthcare providers should diagnose, monitor, and treat conditions like lithium toxicity.

The Law Offices of Dr. Michael M. Wilson, M.D., J.D. & Associates is uniquely positioned to handle lithium poisoning cases with the depth and skill needed for success. By combining unmatched medical experience with proven legal strategies, the team ensures that clients receive comprehensive advocacy while focusing on their recovery.

The Washington, D.C. Lithium Poisoning Lawyers at the Law Offices of Dr. Michael M. Wilson, M.D., J.D. & Associates Fight for the Compensation You Deserve

If you have suffered lithium toxicity due to medical malpractice, contact the Washington, D.C. lithium poisoning lawyers at the Law Offices of Dr. Michael M. Wilson, M.D., J.D. & Associates. Call 202-223-4488 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., we serve clients in the surrounding areas, including Northern Virginia and Maryland.