The most important treatment for drug-induced liver disease is stopping the medication causing the liver damage. In most patients, signs and symptoms of liver disease will resolve, blood tests will become normal, and there will be no long-term liver damage if the offending drug is discontinued in time.
Identifying the Culprit Drug
When liver damage occurs, it’s crucial to determine which medication is responsible. Your doctor will review your medication history, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements. Blood tests and imaging scans may be ordered to assess the extent of liver damage.
Reversing Liver Damage
Once the offending drug is identified and discontinued, the liver has a remarkable ability to regenerate and heal itself. The severity of liver damage and the time it takes to reverse it depends on factors such as the type of medication, the dosage, and the duration of use.
In most cases, liver enzymes will return to normal levels within a few weeks or months after stopping the medication. However, if the liver damage is severe or if the medication was used for an extended period, it may take longer for the liver to fully recover.
In rare cases, liver transplantation may be necessary if the liver damage is irreversible and severe enough to cause liver failure.