Kava kava

Kava kava as it relates to DILI in Health report: Genetics of Antibiotics-Induced Liver Injury

Kava kava, also known simply as kava, is a plant native to the South Pacific islands. It has been traditionally used in ceremonies and for its sedative and anxiolytic properties. However, there have been reports linking kava kava to drug-induced liver injury (DILI).

Mechanism of DILI

While the exact mechanism of kava kava-induced liver injury is not fully understood, it is believed to be related to the presence of compounds called kavalactones. These compounds are thought to cause oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in liver cells, leading to liver damage.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with kava kava-induced DILI may present with symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and elevated liver enzymes. In severe cases, acute liver failure can occur, necessitating urgent medical intervention.

Diagnosis and Management

Diagnosis of kava kava-induced DILI is typically made based on a thorough history of kava kava use, clinical presentation, and laboratory tests showing liver injury. Management involves discontinuation of kava kava and supportive care to help the liver recover. In severe cases, liver transplantation may be necessary.

Prevention

To prevent kava kava-induced DILI, it is important to use kava kava products from reputable sources and follow recommended dosages. Patients with pre-existing liver conditions or those taking medications that can affect liver function should exercise caution when using kava kava.

Overall, while kava kava has been traditionally used for its calming effects, it is important to be aware of the potential risk of liver injury associated with its use. Patients should consult with a healthcare provider before using kava kava to ensure its safety and minimize the risk of DILI.

Supplements for DILI

Here are some dietary supplements related to the content in this report. Click the shopping cart to purchase the supplement from our partners.

  1. Green tea extract

    Contains catechins which may increase oxidative stress and liver cell damage when combined with hepatotoxic antibiotics.

  2. Greater celandine

    Alkaloids like chelidonine may further impair liver function when the organ is under stress from antibiotics.

  3. Chaparral

    Nordamnacanthal is a quinone that could synergistically increase antibiotic liver toxicity through mitochondrial dysfunction.

  4. Germander

    Diterpenoids may amplify antibiotic liver injury by disrupting bile salt export and causing cholestasis.

  5. Mistletoe

    Contains toxic lectins which could worsen immunological reactions or alter detox pathways of antibiotic metabolites.

  6. Skullcap

    Flavonoids may inhibit pathways involved in hepatic metabolism and clearance of antibiotics from the liver.

  7. Valerian

    Isovaltrate and other constituents thought to directly damage cell membranes, potentially worsening antibiotic hepatocellular toxicity.

  8. Kava kava

    Kavalactones like desmethoxyyangonin may inhibit CYP450 liver enzymes important for antibiotic clearance.

  9. St. John's wort

    Hyperforin alters PXR nuclear receptors and could decrease bile acid transport, contributing to antibiotic cholestasis.

  10. Ginseng

    Ginsenosides may inhibit P-glycoprotein transporters important for antibiotic efflux from hepatocytes, allowing accumulation of toxic levels.

  11. Aloe vera

    Anthraquinone glycosides possibly damage cell membranes and worsen antibiotic-mediated liver cell necrosis.

  12. Ashwagandha

    Withanolides thought to cause oxidative stress which synergizes with redox-cycling antibiotic metabolites.

  13. Andrographis

    Diterpene lactones may reduce bile acid secretion and flow, contributing to cholestatic injury.

  14. Noni juice

    Anthraquinones could impair mitochondrial function and increase antibiotic hepatotoxicity.

  15. Peppermint oil

    Menthol interferes with CYP450s and UGTs involved in antibiotic metabolism and clearance.

  16. Kratom

    Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine are metabolized in liver and could enhance antibiotic toxicity.

  17. Ephedra

    Ephedrine alkaloids may deplete glutathione and reduce the liver's defense against antibiotic oxidative damage.

It is essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting any of these supplements. They can have side effects, and some may interact with medications or other supplements you're already taking.
Disclaimer