Hi,I am Dr. Shanthi.E (General & Family Physician). I will be looking into your question and guiding you through the process. Please write your question below.
I have just had an ultrasound of my liver and it showed significant fatty tissue. I am 73 and have never had an issue with the liver. I am a nondrinker and have been on Zetia and Crestor for 20 years with no problems. My recent blood test showed norm bilirubin but slightly elevated AST(45) and ALT(68). The only change in medication since my last blood test a year ago is I started taking Lisinopril (100 mg x 1) 10 mo. ago for mild hypertension. My questions: Is it possible these liver issues could be a known side effect of the Lisinopril? David Wharton KC Mo Q
I understand your concern, but that does not seem to be the case. The database for liver-related side effects of Lisinopril only lists cholestatic jaundice as a rare side effect, which is completely different from what you have. I myself have not had any such problems with Lisinopril either. I would say that the Zetia and Crestor are more likely to stress up the liver, but I also agree that since it hasn't caused you problems in the past, they are unlikely to be the culprits.
The other thing that would be useful to consider is whether your cholesterol levels are actually well controlled. You are right that there are specific stressors to the liver like alcohol and medication, but a high cholesterol level doesn't help either. Also make sure your weight is at an ideal level - your BMI is good as a rough guide.
If all else is good, take a look at your lifestyle. It could have been that over the years your lifestyle has changed, or simply that your liver is just losing the ability to keep up with the usual load. Cut down on sugars, make sure you do enough exercise. All these will help to lower the burden on your liver.
Hope this helps.
Regards, Dr. Teh
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Does Lisinopril Cause Elevated Liver Enzymes?
Hi there, I understand your concern, but that does not seem to be the case. The database for liver-related side effects of Lisinopril only lists cholestatic jaundice as a rare side effect, which is completely different from what you have. I myself have not had any such problems with Lisinopril either. I would say that the Zetia and Crestor are more likely to stress up the liver, but I also agree that since it hasn t caused you problems in the past, they are unlikely to be the culprits. The other thing that would be useful to consider is whether your cholesterol levels are actually well controlled. You are right that there are specific stressors to the liver like alcohol and medication, but a high cholesterol level doesn t help either. Also make sure your weight is at an ideal level - your BMI is good as a rough guide. If all else is good, take a look at your lifestyle. It could have been that over the years your lifestyle has changed, or simply that your liver is just losing the ability to keep up with the usual load. Cut down on sugars, make sure you do enough exercise. All these will help to lower the burden on your liver. Hope this helps. Regards, Dr. Teh