Acute liver failure associated with Garcinia cambogia use

Ann Hepatol. 2016 Jan-Feb;15(1):123-6. doi: 10.5604/16652681.1184287.

Abstract

Millions of Americans regularly use herbal supplements, but many are unaware of the potential hidden dangers. Numerous supplements have been associated with hepatotoxicity and, indeed dietary/herbal supplements represent an increasingly common source of acute liver injury. We report a case of acute liver failure requiring liver transplantation associated with the use of Garcinia cambogia, a supplement widely promoted for weight loss. When patients present with acute hepatitis or liver failure from an unknown etiology, a careful history of supplement use should be performed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Obesity Agents / adverse effects*
  • Biopsy
  • Female
  • Garcinia cambogia / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Liver Failure, Acute / chemically induced*
  • Liver Failure, Acute / diagnosis
  • Liver Failure, Acute / surgery
  • Liver Function Tests
  • Liver Transplantation
  • Middle Aged
  • Phytotherapy
  • Plant Preparations / adverse effects*
  • Plants, Medicinal
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Anti-Obesity Agents
  • Plant Preparations