Arizona Lithium Side Effects Attorney
The ion lithium, combined with other elements to produce chemical salts, has been experimented with and used as a medicinal drug since the 19th century, and knowledge of its risks goes back nearly as far. Today, lithium is somewhat widely prescribed for treatment of bipolar disorder (manic-depressive disorder) — its primary application — and also for some cases of major depression, severe "cluster" headaches and certain other conditions.
While the effectiveness of lithium as a mood stabilizing medication can be debated, lithium toxicity under certain conditions is well established. Overdoses and medical providers' failures to monitor certain bodily conditions such as plasma levels and serum levels can have permanent, life-changing or fatal consequences involving:
- Kidney failure and permanent kidney damage requiring dialysis treatment
- Severe dehydration that can lead to a pulmonary embolism or other tragic consequences
- Permanent neurological damage resulting in tremors, twitches, seizures and even coma
Lithium Overdose Due to Pharmacist, Doctor or Hospital Negligence?
If you or a loved one has suffered severe, permanent damage from lithium toxicity — or a family member suffered an unexpected, inadequately explained death while taking lithium — it is well worth speaking with an experienced Phoenix lithium toxicity lawyer. Forms of medical negligence that may justify a claim or lawsuit to recover damages include:
- A pharmacist error such as mistakenly providing pills in a higher dosage than prescribed, leading to a life-altering or fatal overdose
- Malpractice by a prescribing physician who failed to recommend appropriate patient monitoring, recognize other medications known to interact with lithium, or stop prescribing the drug in time to prevent chronic toxicity
Contact a Law Firm With the Knowledge and Resources to Evaluate Your Case
Not all personal injury lawyers have the knowledge and resources to pursue complex, high-value claims against doctors, hospitals and other health care entities. Not all Phoenix medical malpractice attorneys are familiar with the risks and issues associated with lithium toxicity.
If you believe an overdose of lithium, whether sudden or over time, may have caused the wrongful death or permanent disability of a family member, we will welcome your call at Israel & Gerity, PLLC. We offer a free, no-risk consultation and representation on a contingency basis if we determine you have a valid malpractice claim.
