Don’t Take Them Lightly! These Medications and Supplements Can Lead to Acute Liver Failure!

As cases of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) continue to increase, health experts are raising awareness about the potential risks associated with commonly used medications and dietary supplements.

Statistics reveal a concerning trend of rising DILI cases, also known as toxic hepatitis or hepatotoxicity, in Western countries since the 1960s. This condition is a significant contributor to acute liver failure. Recent research published in the journal Toxicology Reports indicates that approximately one-fifth of individuals prescribed medications will experience DILI. The study identifies herbal products, dietary supplements, and medications as potential triggers for liver injury. Those with pre-existing liver conditions, nutritional deficiencies, and pregnant women are considered to be at higher risk.

According to the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG), the liver plays a crucial role in breaking down orally ingested substances, including both medications and supplements. For some individuals, the metabolism of these substances can be slower, thereby increasing the likelihood of liver damage. Even medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) can, in rare instances, lead to liver injury. Common symptoms of liver disease may include nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, generalized itching, dark urine, and jaundice, although some individuals may not experience any noticeable signs.

A recent study in Toxicology Reports identified several medications that are most frequently implicated in causing liver injury. These include:

Paracetamol (acetaminophen), a common over-the-counter pain reliever
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Aspirin, Nimesulide, Methotrexate, Corticosteroids, Isoniazid,Tetracyclines, Halothan.

Furthermore, herbal and dietary supplements (HDS) are also significant contributors to DILI. Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, highlighted that the active chemical amounts in herbal supplements are not strictly regulated, making it difficult to know the exact dosage. As many supplements are metabolized by the liver, there has been a rise in liver toxicity cases among users.

A 2024 study published in JAMA Network Open revealed that cases of DILI linked to herbal or dietary supplements nearly tripled between 2004 and 2014. The most common botanical products associated with potential liver toxicity include:Turmeric, Green tea,  Ashwagandha, Garcinia cambogia, Red yeast rice, Black cohosh.

Researchers noted that DILI caused by HDS can be severe or even fatal, potentially leading to death or requiring a liver transplant. Dr. Siegel cautioned about the liver-related risks of some of these supplements, advising moderation with turmeric, skepticism about the effectiveness of Garcinia cambogia, careful monitoring of red yeast rice, and avoiding high doses of green tea extract.

The FDA regulates dietary supplements under a different set of regulations than those covering conventional foods and drugs. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety and proper labeling of their products before marketing them. Fox News Digital reached out to researchers and the FDA for comments on the increasing trend of drug- and HSD-related liver injury.