Related Experiment Videos
Severe hepatotoxicity associated with use of a dietary supplement containing usnic acid
William Sanchez1, John T Maple, Lawrence J Burgart
1Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Abstract:
Dietary supplements containing usnic acid are marketed for weight loss and have been associated with hepatotoxicity. The specific ingredient responsible for the hepatotoxicity is currently unknown. We describe 2 patients who developed severe hepatotoxicity within 3 months of taking a dietary supplement containing usnic acid. One patient developed fulminant hepatic failure requiring emergency liver transplantation; the other developed submassive hepatic necrosis but did not require transplantation. Thorough investigation, including histopathological examination of the liver, revealed no other cause of acute liver injury. Usnic acid hepatotoxicity should be considered as a possible etiologic factor in patients presenting with fulminant hepatic failure, especially if they have been taking dietary supplements for weight reduction.
Related Concept Videos
Drug Toxicity: Risk factors
Drug toxicity: Drug–Drug Interaction
Drug Toxicity: Overview
Drug Toxicity: Dose-Dependent Reactions
Acid Suppressive Drugs for Peptic Ulcer Disease: Antacids
However, this neutralization reaction between...
Drug Toxicity: Allergic Reactions