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Herbal hepatotoxicity: an expanding but poorly defined problem.
1Storr Liver Unit, University of Sydney at Westmead Hospital, New South Wales, Australia.
Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
|December 6, 2000
Summary
Herbal remedies, while popular for liver disease, pose risks of liver injury and drug interactions. Increased awareness and regulation are crucial for managing these emerging hepatotoxins.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Toxicology
- Integrative Medicine
Background:
- Alternative therapies, particularly herbal remedies, are widely used by the general population and patients with liver disease.
- The use of herbal products is prevalent globally, extending beyond traditional medicine practitioners.
- Perceived benefits of herbal remedies are often unproven, prompting increased scrutiny due to potential adverse effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review emerging herbal hepatotoxins and newer patterns of liver injury from established agents.
- To provide an updated tabulation of adverse effects associated with major herbal hepatotoxins.
- To address key issues in the diagnosis and prevention of herbal product-induced liver injury.
Main Methods:
- Review of emerging herbal hepatotoxins.
- Analysis of newer patterns of liver injury associated with older herbal agents.
- Updated tabulation of adverse effects of major herbal hepatotoxins.
Main Results:
- Herbal hepatotoxicity is a recognized issue, with new agents continually being identified.
- Diverse liver injuries can result from herbal products, including steatosis, hepatitis, necrosis, and liver failure.
- Potential interactions between herbal medicines and conventional drugs can complicate patient management and perpetuate liver injury.
Conclusions:
- Concurrent use of herbal products is often undisclosed, hindering proper patient management and potentially worsening liver injury.
- Public education, enhanced physician awareness, and stricter regulatory licensing are essential to address the growing problem of herbal hepatotoxicity.
- Early identification and prevention strategies are critical for mitigating the risks associated with herbal remedies in patients with liver disease.