Carbamazepine-induced hepatitis
Haukeland, J.W.; Jahnsen, J.; Raknerud, N.
Tidsskrift for den Norske Laegeforening Tidsskrift for Praktisk Medicin Ny Raekke 120(24): 2875-2877
2000
ISSN/ISBN: 0029-2001 PMID: 11143408 Document Number: 512383
Hepatotoxic reactions associated with carbamazepine therapy are well recognised, and it is important that clinicians are aware of this adverse effect. We present the clinical course in three patients with carbamazepine-induced hepatitis. All three patients had clinical and biochemical signs of hepatitis; improvement occurred immediately after carbamazepine therapy was discontinued. Other causes of hepatitis were excluded. Previous reports concerning this adverse effect are reviewed. Focusing on the liver as the major organ for drug metabolism, we discuss possible pathophysiological mechanisms of drug-induced hepatic injury. A thorough medication history is mandatory in all patients with hepatitis and other liver diseases. The prognosis of carbamazepine-induced hepatitis is usually excellent, but fatal cases have been reported.