Variability of the clinical expression of ecstasy-induced hepatotoxicity
by
Nunez O, Banares R, Barrio J,
Menchen L, Diego Ad A, Salinero E, Clemente G.
Servicio de Aparato Digestivo. Seccion de Hepatologia.
Hospital Universitario Gregorio Maranon. Madrid. Spain
Gastroenterol Hepatol 2002 Oct;25(8):497-500

ABSTRACT

3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is an amphetamine derivative, known as ecstasy. Because of its euphoric effects, the use of this substance as a drug of abuse is becoming increasingly widespread. The development of hyperthermia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, rhabdomyolysis, acute renal failure, cardiac arrhythmia and neurotoxicity have been described in association with the use of this drug. Moreover, in the last few years, cases of liver involvement, associated or not with the above-mentioned entities, have been described, ranging from mild acute hepatitis to fulminant hepatic failure and death. We present four cases of ecstasy-induced hepatotoxicity. Outcome was favorable in three patients while the fourth required liver transplantation. Consequently, ecstasy ingestion should be ruled out as a cause of acute non-viral hepatitis.

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