Worsening of pulmonary respiratory function caused by the administration of lithium carbonate
Portuondo, J.J.
Medicina Clinica 85(9): 371-372
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0025-7753 PMID: 3935891 Document Number: 264362
Two new cases of worsening of respiratory function associated to an unduly increase in the dosage of lithium taken by the patients are reported. The clinical features were coincident with an increase in the serum lithium levels above 1.5 mEq/l. In patients with previous respiratory restriction, lithium administration must be monitored by measurement of blood gases, both before and after therapy, and lithium levels determination. If symptoms suggesting a worsening in respiratory function appear, lithium administration must be withdrawn even if serum levels of lithium are within the normal range.