[Hepatotoxicity caused by therapeutic doses of paracetamol in alcoholics. Report of 2 cases of fatal hepatitis in cirrhosis]

Ann Med Interne (Paris). 1999 Oct;150(6):507-11.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Paracetamol is a widely used medication as it is an effective analgesic and antipyretic. Because of the absence of gastro-intestinal side effects, it has been used as the analgesic of choice for alcoholic patients. Hepatotoxicity is dose-related and generally occurs in patients who absorb more than 125 mg/kg/j. However, cases of severe liver damage have been reported after absorption of therapeutic doses of paracetamol in alcoholics. We report 2 cases with a fatal outcome and discuss the mechanisms of toxicity, the prognostic factors and treatment of such event.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acetaminophen / adverse effects*
  • Alcoholism / complications*
  • Analgesics, Non-Narcotic / adverse effects*
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Analgesics, Non-Narcotic
  • Acetaminophen