Drug-induced hepatitis is inflammation of the liver that may occur when you take certain medications.

See also:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C
• Hepatitis D

The liver helps the body break down certain drugs. However, the way it does so differs from person to person. Therefore, may different drugs can cause drug-induced hepatitis.

Painkillers and fever reducers that contain acetaminophen are a common cause of liver inflammation. These medications can damage the liver when taken in doses that are not much greater than the recommended therapeutic dose.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen may also cause drug-induced hepatitis.

Other drugs that can lead to liver inflammation include:

• Amiodarone
• Anabolic steroids
• Birth control pills
• Chlopromazine
• Erythromycin
• Halothane
• Methyldopa
• Isoniazid (used to treat tuberculosis)
• Methotrexate
• Statins

• Abdominal pain
• Dark urine
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Jaundice
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• White or clay-colored stools

Blood tests will be done to check liver function. Liver enzymes may be increased.

A physical exam may reveal an enlarged liver and abdominal tenderness in the right upper part of the belly area.