Drug-induced hepatitis
Definition
Drug-induced hepatitis is inflammation of the liver that may occur when you take certain medications.
See also:
Alternative Names
Toxic hepatitisCauses
The liver helps the body break down certain drugs. However, the way it does so differs from person to person. Therefore, many different drugs can cause drug-induced hepatitis.
Painkillers and fever reducers that contain acetaminophen are a common cause of liver inflammation. These medications can damage the liver when taken in doses that are not much greater than the recommended therapeutic dose.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, may also cause drug-induced hepatitis.
Other drugs that can lead to liver inflammation include:
- Amiodarone
- Anabolic steroids
- Birth control pills
- Chlorpromazine
- Erythromycin
- Halothane
- Methyldopa
- Isoniazid (used to treat tuberculosis)
- Methotrexate
- Statins
References
Goldman L, Ausiello D. Cecil Textbook of Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by
URAC, also known as the American
Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is
the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and
accountability, verified by independent audit.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.