DRUGS AND THE LIVER

Question 1

Causes of drug-induced liver damage

Answer 1

Allopathic drugs
Herbal preparations
Dietary supplements

Question 2

Symptoms of drug induced liver damage

Answer 2

Asymptomatic
Right upper quadrant pain
Nausea
Anorexia
Malaise
Lethargy
Pruritus

Question 3

Signs of drug induced liver damage

Answer 3

Jaundice
Scratch marks
Bruising
Asterixis
Altered mental state
Signs of pre-existing chronic liver disease

Question 4

Investigations in drug induced liver damage

Answer 4

FBC
LFTS
BUE and Creatinine
INR
Serum glucose
Urinalysis
Hepatitis screen (A, B, C, E) for exclusion
Abdominal ultrasound scan

Question 5

Treatment objectives in drug-induced liver damage

Answer 5

To identify and withdraw the offending agent
To report as adverse drug event to Food and Drugs Authority (FDA)
promptly
To assess severity of liver disease
To administer antidote where applicable or feasible