Acute drug induced hepatitis secondary to a weight loss product purchased over the internet
2007

Acute Hepatitis from a Weight Loss Product

Sample size: 1 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Deepak Joshi, Tim JS Cross, Voi Shim Wong

Primary Institution: The Whittington Hospital, London, UK

Hypothesis

Can herbal weight loss products purchased online cause acute hepatitis?

Conclusion

The case report emphasizes the risks associated with weight loss products available online and the need for healthcare providers to inquire about alternative medicines in patients with acute hepatitis.

Supporting Evidence

  • The patient had no identifiable risk factors for chronic liver disease.
  • Liver function tests showed significantly elevated aspartate aminotransaminase levels.
  • The patient's condition improved after discontinuing the weight loss product.

Takeaway

A 20-year-old woman got very sick from taking a weight loss pill she bought online, showing that some products can be dangerous.

Methodology

Case report detailing the clinical presentation, laboratory findings, and treatment of a patient with acute hepatitis.

Limitations

The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.

Participant Demographics

One 20-year-old woman.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1475-2891-6-13

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