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Induction of Drug-Induced, Autoimmune Hepatitis in BALB/c Mice for the Study of Its Pathogenic Mechanisms
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Drug-Induced Hepatitis Caused by Methylphenidate: A Case Report.
Diana Valbom Gonçalves1, Mariana Bravo2, Sónia Almeida1
1Department of Pediatrics. Unidade Local de Saúde Aveiro. Aveiro. Portugal.
Acta Medica Portuguesa
|December 17, 2025
Summary
Methylphenidate (MPH) can cause rare liver damage in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Regular monitoring is crucial to detect drug-induced hepatitis early and prevent serious complications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pharmacology
- Hepatology
- Neuropsychiatry
Background:
- Methylphenidate (MPH) is a first-line psychostimulant for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
- While generally safe, rare instances of hepatotoxicity associated with MPH treatment have been reported.
- Adverse effects of MPH are typically transient, but liver injury can be a serious concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of drug-induced hepatitis in a pediatric patient treated with MPH.
- To highlight the importance of monitoring liver function during long-term MPH therapy.
- To emphasize the need for early detection and intervention to prevent severe liver complications.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a 12-year-old female with ADHD on long-term MPH therapy.
- Biochemical assessment including liver enzymes (transaminases, gamma-glutamyl transferase).
- Liver biopsy to confirm drug-induced hepatitis after excluding other causes.
Main Results:
- The patient exhibited marked elevation in liver enzymes after 3.5 years of MPH treatment.
- Liver biopsy confirmed drug-induced hepatitis.
- Discontinuation of MPH led to normalization of liver enzyme levels.
Conclusions:
- Long-term MPH therapy necessitates regular laboratory monitoring for liver function in pediatric patients.
- Early identification of elevated liver enzymes is critical for prompt MPH discontinuation.
- Timely intervention can reverse hepatic injury and prevent progression to liver failure.
Keywords:
AdolescentAttention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity/drug therapyChemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/diagnosisChemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/etiologyMethylphenidate/adverse effectsMore Related Videos
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