Related Experiment Videos
Cholestatic jaundice associated with captopril therapy.
L Crantock1, R Prentice, L Powell
1Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Australia.
Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
|September 1, 1991
Summary
Captopril can cause liver injury, specifically cholestatic jaundice, though rare. This drug-induced liver disease may persist for weeks after discontinuing captopril.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Hepatology
- Clinical Toxicology
Background:
- Captopril is a widely used angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor for heart failure and hypertension.
- While known for dermatological, renal, and hematological toxicities, hepatic reactions are less commonly reported.
- Previous reports of Captopril-induced liver injury often highlight cholestatic features, but mixed or hepatocellular patterns also occur.
Observation:
- The Australian Adverse Drug Reaction Advisory Committee received only five reports of possible Captopril-associated hepatic dysfunction between 1972 and 1990.
- Reported cases show an equal sex distribution with a latent period ranging from 1 week to 20 months.
- Jaundice and biochemical abnormalities typically resolve slowly, taking 1 to 6 months after drug withdrawal.
Findings:
- A case of Captopril-induced cholestatic jaundice is presented, occurring two weeks after initiating the drug.
- The jaundice and biochemical abnormalities resolved slowly over several weeks following Captopril discontinuation.
- Systemic features suggestive of a drug hypersensitivity syndrome were noted in some cases.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of a thorough patient history, including prior drug exposure, when diagnosing jaundice.
- Emphasizes that Captopril-induced liver disease, particularly cholestatic jaundice, can have a prolonged recovery period.
- Underscores the need for vigilance regarding potential hepatic adverse effects of Captopril, even if uncommon.