In this mind-altering episode of Don’t Panic: The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Toxicology, Dr. Stephen P. Wood takes you on a galactic journey through the hazards of acute and chronic lithium toxicity—a topic as unpredictable as Zaphod Beeblebrox and as dangerous as forgetting your towel.

From the pathophysiology and toxicokinetics of this space-age element to real-world clinical presentations and evidence-based management strategies, this episode covers everything you need to know when lithium tips from therapeutic to toxic. Learn the differences between acute, chronic, and acute-on-chronic exposures, and get up to speed on when to dialyze, when to hydrate, and when to just panic—kidding, of course.

Complete with updated guidance from EXTRIP, a review of SILENT syndrome, and your host’s cosmic commentary, this is the episode you didn’t know you needed—but will never forget.

Key Topics Covered:

Lithium distribution and excretion

Clinical signs and stages of toxicity

The subtle danger of chronic exposures

Dialysis indications (EXTRIP guidelines)

SILENT syndrome and long-term complications

Spoiler: Activated charcoal won't save you. But maybe your towel will.

In this episode we take a deep dive into methylene blue. We look at indications, cautions, pharmacology, toxicology and review the controversy of it's use as a brain supplement. 

In this episode we tackle the TCAs. What they are, how to recognize toxicity, and how to treat it.

In this episode we break down the topic of chemical, AKA detergent suicides. We discuss the chemistry, symptoms and treatment of this important toxicologic issue. We also discuss provider safety as well as suicide awareness. 

Join me in this episode as we discuss acute and chronic digoxin toxicity. 

In this episode of Don't Panic: Hitchhiker’s Guide to Toxicology, we take a deep dive into one of the most common yet potentially lethal overdoses—acetaminophen toxicity. Host [Your Name] breaks down the science behind how this everyday pain reliever turns deadly, the crucial four-stage progression of toxicity, and why early recognition is key. We explore the evidence-based approach to diagnosis, the life-saving role of N-acetylcysteine (NAC), and the latest advancements in treatment. Whether you're an emergency provider, a toxicology enthusiast, or just someone who pops Tylenol regularly, this episode is packed with must-know, up-to-date medical insights. Tune in, stay informed, and most importantly—don’t panic!

In this episode we explore CCB overdose. We discuss the history of these drugs, the classes and their primary effects, as well as signs, symptoms, and treatment of this life-threatening overdose. Grab your towel and join us!