Drug-induced liver disease in older adults

The elderly population consumes more prescription and over-the-counter medications than any other segment of the population. As a result, they are more prone to adverse drug events and susceptible to drug induced liver injury. Further, age related changes in the liver also influence drug metabolism, contributing to an increased risk of adverse effects. The spectrum of drug induced liver disease can vary from frequently noted mild abnormality of liver function tests to occasional severe injury, resulting in death. In the elderly, drugs must be considered as the most likely basis for abnormal liver function. Awareness of this fact, coupled with appropriate use of medications and close monitoring of liver function tests will minimize the magnitude of this problem.