Drug-Induced Hepatitis

What is drug-induced hepatitis?

Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver, resulting in liver cell damage and destruction. Drug-induced hepatitis is rare and is caused by toxic exposure to certain medications, vitamins, herbal remedies, or food supplements. Usually, the toxicity occurs after taking the causative agent for several months, or from an overdose of a medication, such as acetaminophen. Usually, the agent is discontinued once hepatitis is suspected and is rarely restarted unless it is absolutely essential for treatment.

What are the symptoms of drug-induced hepatitis?

The following are the most common symptoms of drug-induced hepatitis. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

• Fever

• Rash or itchy red hives on skin

• Joint pain

• Sore muscles

• Flu-like symptoms

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Decreased appetite

• Sore muscles

• Dark urine

• Pale or clay-colored stools

• Jaundice. A yellowing of the skin and eyes.

The symptoms of drug-induced hepatitis may resemble other medical conditions or problems. Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis.

How is drug-induced hepatitis diagnosed?

In addition to complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for drug-induced hepatitis may include the following:

• Specific laboratory blood tests, such as the following:

  • Liver function studies

  • Cellular blood counts

  • Bleeding times

  • Electrolyte tests

  • Tests for other chemicals in the body

  • Drug screening tests

• Ultrasound (also called sonography). A diagnostic imaging technique which uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the internal organs. Ultrasounds are used to view internal organs of the abdomen, such as the liver spleen, and kidneys, and to assess blood flow through various vessels.

• Liver biopsy. A procedure in which tissue samples from the liver are removed (with a needle or during surgery) from the body for examination under a microscope.

Treatment for drug-induced hepatitis

Specific treatment for drug-induced hepatitis will be determined by your doctor based on:

• Your age, overall health, and medical history

• Extent of the disease

• Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies

• Expectations for the course of the disease

• Your opinion or preference

The goal of treatment for drug-induced hepatitis is to discontinue taking the causative agent and monitor the liver closely while it recovers. Some drugs may cause a slight increase in liver enzymes without symptoms. It may not be necessary to discontinue using these medications. Always consult your doctor. If drug-induced hepatitis is suspected and confirmed, serial blood tests will be necessary, and possibly a referral to a liver specialist. Your doctor will report the findings to the FDA and the pharmaceutical manufacturer.