Related Experiment Videos
Hepatotoxicity associated with acarbose therapy.
Shu-Hwa Hsiao1, Li-Hsiang Liao, Pin-Nan Cheng
1Department of Pharmacy, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Taiwan, Republic of China.
The Annals of Pharmacotherapy
|December 1, 2005
Summary
Acarbose, a medication for type 2 diabetes, can rarely cause liver damage (hepatotoxicity). Monitoring liver function is crucial for patients on long-term acarbose therapy to detect this potential adverse effect early.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Pharmacology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus management often involves multiple oral agents.
- Acarbose is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor used to improve glycemic control.
- Drug-induced liver injury is a significant concern in pharmacotherapy.
Observation:
- A case of a 57-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes developed elevated liver enzymes after initiating acarbose therapy.
- Other potential causes of hepatotoxicity, including supplements and infections, were ruled out.
- Liver function tests normalized after discontinuation of acarbose, suggesting a causal relationship.
Findings:
- Acarbose-induced hepatotoxicity was diagnosed based on temporal association and exclusion of other etiologies.
- Causality assessment scales (Naranjo and Roussel Uclaf) indicated a probable adverse drug reaction.
- While uncommon, acarbose can lead to significant liver injury.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should consider acarbose as a potential cause of elevated liver enzymes in diabetic patients.
- Close monitoring of liver function is recommended for individuals on long-term acarbose treatment.
- This case highlights the importance of pharmacovigilance for alpha-glucosidase inhibitors.