Increased risk of hepatotoxicity and temporary drug withdrawal during treatment of active tuberculosis in pregnant women

Abstract

Background: Few studies have focused on the treatment of tuberculosis (TB) during pregnancy. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of adverse events, particularly liver toxicity, in pregnant women during treatment for active TB. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study on pregnant and age-matched non-pregnant women receiving treatment for active TB at four hospitals in Western Sweden between 1992 and 2017. Results: A total of 135 women were included, 40 pregnant and 95 non-pregnant. The frequency of severe hepatotoxicity was 40% in pregnant women and 6% among non-pregnant women (p < 0.001) (odds ratio 9.9; 95% confidence interval 3.5–28.0). Temporary drug withdrawal due to elevated transaminase levels was more frequent for pregnant than non-pregnant women (40% vs 9.5%; p < 0.001) (odds ratio 6.4; 95% confidence interval 2.5–16.2). There was one fatal case of hepatotoxicity in a pregnant woman. Conclusion: Severe hepatotoxicity was significantly more frequent in pregnant women compared to non-pregnant women. Careful monitoring of liver transaminases while receiving TB treatment during pregnancy is mandatory, as well as ensuring adequate measures with adjustment of drug regimen and temporary drug withdrawals when a rise in liver enzymes is noted.

Keywords

• Tuberculosis
• Treatment
• Pregnancy
• Adverse events
• Hepatotoxicity
• Drug withdrawal