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Hyponatraemia

What is hyponatraemia?

Hyponatraemia is an imbalance of electrolytes in the blood serum, typically involving reduced salt (sodium) levels. This usually occurs through excessive water retention diluting the salt content of the blood in combination with increased sodium excretion in the kidneys. Mild hyponatraemia does not have obvious symptoms, however when sodium levels drop dangerously low they can cause muscle cramps, lethargy, and delirium; eventually leading to convulsions, which can be fatal. Hyponatraemia can occur as a side effect of many medications including antipsychotics.

What is the evidence for hyponatraemia?

Moderate to low quality evidence suggests hyponatraemia occurs more commonly in people taking antipsychotic medications than those not taking antipsychotic medication.

October 2020

Last updated at: 4:05 am, 15th October 2020
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