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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 26, 2026

Drug-Induced Senescence in Liver Cells Promotes M2 Macrophage Polarization: Implications for Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor-Associated Hepatotoxicity
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Drug-Induced Senescence in Liver Cells Promotes M2 Macrophage Polarization: Implications for Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor-Associated Hepatotoxicity

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Donepezil-related toxic hepatitis.

R I R Dierckx1, M F J Vandewoude

  • 1Department of Cardiology, University of Antwerp, Belgium.

Acta Clinica Belgica
|February 4, 2009
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

This study reports a rare case of toxic hepatitis in a patient treated with donepezil, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor used for Alzheimer's disease. Further investigation into donepezil's potential liver toxicity is warranted.

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Drug-Induced Senescence in Liver Cells Promotes M2 Macrophage Polarization: Implications for Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor-Associated Hepatotoxicity
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Human Liver Microphysiological System for Assessing Drug-Induced Liver Toxicity In Vitro
11:06

Human Liver Microphysiological System for Assessing Drug-Induced Liver Toxicity In Vitro

Published on: January 31, 2022

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Hepatology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the primary cause of dementia.
  • Current AD treatments include cholinesterase inhibitors, such as donepezil, which enhance cholinergic neurotransmission.
  • Donepezil is widely used for mild to moderate AD, with clinical trials not previously indicating hepatotoxicity.

Observation:

  • A case study details a patient who developed toxic hepatitis.
  • Liver biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of hepatitis.
  • The patient was undergoing treatment with donepezil for Alzheimer's disease.

Findings:

  • This case presents a potential association between donepezil treatment and drug-induced liver injury.
  • Hepatotoxicity was documented via liver biopsy in a patient receiving donepezil.
  • This finding contrasts with the previously reported safety profile of donepezil regarding liver function.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of monitoring liver function in patients treated with donepezil.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms and prevalence of donepezil-associated hepatotoxicity.
  • Clinicians should consider toxic hepatitis in patients on donepezil presenting with unexplained liver enzyme elevations.