What is Drug - induced liver disease?

A large number of prescribed drugs, other medicinal substances and toxins can damage the liver. In most cases the hepato-toxic effect is idiosyncratic and cannot be predicted; in certain cases the drug or substance is known to damage the liver and the effect is dose dependent. Toxic effects can be avoided in the latter circumstances by prescribing low doses and withdrawing the drug as soon as problems arise. Herbal remedies and illegal drugs such as cocaine and ecstasy can cause liver damage.

Some people appear to be more susceptible to drug hepato-toxicity than others. There may be increased susceptibility with age. It is estimated that between 0.1 and 3% of hospital admissions are due to adverse drug reactions affecting the liver. A small number of drug reactions cause fatal liver disease.

If evidence shows that the customer has liver failure, which may have resulted from drug - induced liver disease then go to Liver Failure guidance.

If evidence shows that the customer has cirrhosis, which may have resulted from drug - induced liver disease then go to Cirrhosis guidance.