Predicting serum drug level using the principles of pharmacokinetics after an overdose: a case of lithium overdose

Abstract

Objective:

In cases of drug overdose, clinicians often find it challenging to predict serum drug level and decide the optimum time for recommencing the overdosed drug.

Method:

This paper describes how to predict serum drug level using the principles of pharmacokinetics.

Results:

The proposed method and recommencement of the overdosed drug is demonstrated using a clinical case of lithium overdose.

Conclusion:

The proposed method can assist clinicians in predicting serum drug levels and deciding the optimum time for recommencing the overdosed drug safely. Therefore, it may reduce unnecessary repeat serum drug level procedures.