Liver Function Abnormalities After Emergency Contraceptive Use

Q: Liver Function Abnormalities After Emergency Contraceptive Use

Hello： 1. <br>Liver enzymes may be affected by lack of sleep, medications, and food, and are not necessarily caused by emergency contraceptive pills. <br>2. <br>As long as liver cells are not continuously damaged, the enzyme levels can return to normal quickly. <br>Changhua Hospi

Liver dysfunction

Hello Doctor, I took emergency contraceptive pills on December 9, which I bought at a pharmacy.
Later, I visited an obstetrician-gynecologist for insurance purposes, and the doctor prescribed me another dose of emergency contraceptive pills, two pills to be taken in the evening and one the next morning.
So, on December 9, I took two emergency contraceptive pills and one on December 10.
After that, I forgot that I had taken the contraceptive pills.
On December 13, during a liver function test, my blood report showed GOT 41 and GPT 116.
The doctor prescribed me two months of sulfmuramin 150 mg and advised me to stop taking health supplements (I usually take Jeonggwanjang ginseng tablets daily, and sometimes my father reminds me to drink chicken essence).
Later, on December 22, I had another blood test to check for hepatitis C antibodies, hepatitis B antibodies and antigens, r-GT, GPT, tumor markers for liver cancer, and some immune tests, including antinuclear antibody.
I searched online for information but still couldn't understand what this test was for.
The doctor explained it as something related to autoimmune liver issues, but I really didn't understand.
However, all the results from that blood test were normal, and the ultrasound was also normal.
Interestingly, my GPT returned to 37 on its own within those seven days; I didn't do anything special, just went to bed early and woke up early.
The doctor concluded that I had acute hepatitis, and it was a good sign that I recovered on my own.
After that, I didn't go back to the clinic and researched a lot of information myself.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
I read that emergency contraceptive pills are primarily metabolized by the liver.
Since I took them twice, could this be the reason for the elevated liver enzymes in my blood test on December 13? 2.
During the period from December 13 to December 22, when my liver enzymes returned to normal, I stopped taking health supplements and only maintained a regular sleep schedule.
Is it possible for drug-induced acute hepatitis to resolve in such a short time? Thank you, Doctor, and I wish you good health!

Rae, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/09

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: 1.
Liver enzymes may be affected by lack of sleep, medications, and food, and are not necessarily caused by emergency contraceptive pills.
2.
As long as liver cells are not continuously damaged, the enzyme levels can return to normal quickly.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2017/02/09

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your detailed inquiry regarding your liver function abnormalities following the use of emergency contraceptive pills. It’s great to hear that your liver function tests returned to normal after a brief period of concern. Let’s break down your questions and provide some clarity.

1. Emergency Contraceptive Pills and Liver Function: Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) primarily contain hormones like levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate, which are metabolized by the liver. It is indeed possible that taking multiple doses of ECPs in a short time frame could lead to transient elevations in liver enzymes, such as GOT (AST) and GPT (ALT). However, significant liver damage from ECPs is rare. The liver is a resilient organ, and many factors can influence liver enzyme levels, including medications, alcohol consumption, and underlying health conditions.

2. Rapid Normalization of Liver Enzymes: It is entirely possible for liver enzymes to return to normal within a week or so, especially if the elevation was mild and due to a transient factor such as medication. The liver has a remarkable ability to recover from acute insults, provided there is no ongoing damage or chronic condition. Your decision to stop taking health supplements and maintain a healthy lifestyle, including proper sleep, likely contributed to the normalization of your liver function.

3. Autoimmune Markers and Further Testing: The tests you mentioned, including the antinuclear antibody (ANA), are often used to screen for autoimmune liver diseases. The fact that these tests returned normal is reassuring and suggests that there is no underlying autoimmune process affecting your liver. It’s important to follow up with your healthcare provider regarding any abnormal results and to discuss any further testing if necessary.

4. Monitoring and Future Considerations: Given your history of elevated liver enzymes, it’s wise to continue monitoring your liver function, especially if you plan to use medications or supplements in the future. Always inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, as these can impact liver health.

5. Lifestyle Factors: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for liver health. This includes avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, maintaining a balanced diet, and managing body weight. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help ensure that your liver remains healthy.

In summary, while the use of emergency contraceptive pills can lead to temporary elevations in liver enzymes, your liver's ability to recover quickly is a positive sign. It’s essential to stay vigilant about your liver health and communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any concerns or symptoms you may experience in the future. If you have any further questions or if new symptoms arise, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Wishing you continued health and well-being!

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