Cholestatic liver injury secondary to over-the-counter cyproheptadine: case report and review of literature

Abstract

Abstract Background Cyproheptadine is an easily available over-the-counter first-generation antihistaminic that is often used as an appetite stimulant. Although it is usually a safe drug, rare instances of drug-induced liver injury may occur. Case presentation We report a case of cholestatic liver injury secondary to cyproheptadine in a young pharmacy student with chronic hepatitis B and review the literature of cyproheptadine-induced liver injury. Conclusion Although cyproheptadine is largely a safe drug, its potential for significant liver toxicity cannot be ignored.

Keywords

• Cyproheptadine
• Drug-induced liver injury
• Cholestasis
• Orexigenic