Kava kava
Kava kava as it relates to DILI in Health report: Genetics of Antibiotics-Induced Liver Injury
Drug-Induced Liver Injury (DILI) and Kava Kava
There have been several cases reported where the consumption of kava kava has been associated with liver damage. Symptoms of DILI can include jaundice, fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, DILI can lead to acute liver failure, requiring liver transplantation.
Mechanism of DILI with Kava Kava
The exact mechanism by which kava kava causes liver injury is not fully understood. Some studies suggest that certain compounds in kava kava may be toxic to the liver cells, leading to inflammation and damage. Additionally, genetic factors and individual susceptibility may play a role in determining who is at risk for DILI from kava kava.
Regulatory Actions
Due to concerns about the potential for liver injury, several countries, including Germany, Switzerland, France, Canada, and Australia, have restricted or banned the sale of kava kava products. In the United States, the FDA issued a warning in 2002 about the potential risks of kava kava and advised consumers to consult with their healthcare providers before using kava kava supplements.
Conclusion
While kava kava has been used for centuries for its calming effects, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with its use, particularly in relation to liver health. Individuals considering using kava kava should consult with their healthcare providers and be vigilant for any signs of liver injury.
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.
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Green tea extract
Contains catechins which may increase oxidative stress and liver cell damage when combined with hepatotoxic antibiotics.
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Greater celandine
Alkaloids like chelidonine may further impair liver function when the organ is under stress from antibiotics.
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Chaparral
Nordamnacanthal is a quinone that could synergistically increase antibiotic liver toxicity through mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Germander
Diterpenoids may amplify antibiotic liver injury by disrupting bile salt export and causing cholestasis.
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Mistletoe
Contains toxic lectins which could worsen immunological reactions or alter detox pathways of antibiotic metabolites.
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Skullcap
Flavonoids may inhibit pathways involved in hepatic metabolism and clearance of antibiotics from the liver.
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Valerian
Isovaltrate and other constituents thought to directly damage cell membranes, potentially worsening antibiotic hepatocellular toxicity.
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Kava kava
Kavalactones like desmethoxyyangonin may inhibit CYP450 liver enzymes important for antibiotic clearance.
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St. John's wort
Hyperforin alters PXR nuclear receptors and could decrease bile acid transport, contributing to antibiotic cholestasis.
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Ginseng
Ginsenosides may inhibit P-glycoprotein transporters important for antibiotic efflux from hepatocytes, allowing accumulation of toxic levels.
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Aloe vera
Anthraquinone glycosides possibly damage cell membranes and worsen antibiotic-mediated liver cell necrosis.
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Ashwagandha
Withanolides thought to cause oxidative stress which synergizes with redox-cycling antibiotic metabolites.
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Andrographis
Diterpene lactones may reduce bile acid secretion and flow, contributing to cholestatic injury.
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Noni juice
Anthraquinones could impair mitochondrial function and increase antibiotic hepatotoxicity.
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Peppermint oil
Menthol interferes with CYP450s and UGTs involved in antibiotic metabolism and clearance.
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Kratom
Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine are metabolized in liver and could enhance antibiotic toxicity.
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Ephedra
Ephedrine alkaloids may deplete glutathione and reduce the liver's defense against antibiotic oxidative damage.
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