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Drug-induced cholestasis

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Bile pathway
Bile pathway

Alternative Names    Return to top

Cholestasis - drug-induced

Definition    Return to top

Drug-induced cholestasis is a blockage in the flow of bile from the liver that occurs with medication use.

Causes    Return to top

Bile is produced in the liver, moved to the gallbladder, and released into the gut through the biliary tract. It helps the body digest fats.

Certain drugs can slow or stop the flow of bile from the liver to the gallbladder and gut, which may damage the liver.

Many drugs can cause cholestasis, including:

Other medications can also cause cholestasis in some people.

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

High bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase.

Treatment    Return to top

If medication is causing the cholestasis, the doctor will probably tell you to stop taking the drug and will prescribe an alternative, if possible. DO NOT stop taking medications on your own without talking to your doctor. There is no medicine to reverse drug-induced cholestasis.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Most patients recover, but severe cases may lead to liver failure. Drug-induced cholestasis usually reverses after you stop taking the medication or drug. However, it may take many months for cholestasis to get better.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if you have persistent itching or notice that your skin or eyes are yellow.

Update Date: 8/22/2008

Updated by: Christian Stone, MD, Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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