The ketolide antibiotic Ketek has been linked to
hepatitis, liver damage resulting in liver transplants, and death.
Hepatitis is a gastroenterological disease known as inflammation of the liver.
The clinical signs and prognosis, as well as the therapy, depend on the cause.
Hepatitis is characterized by fatigue, malaise, joint aches, abdominal pain,
vomiting two or three times a day for the first five days, loss of appetite,
dark urine, fever, jaundice, and an enlarged liver. Some chronic forms of
hepatitis show very few of these signs and only when the longstanding
inflammation has led to the replacement of liver cells by connective tissue
resulting in cirrhosis. Certain liver function tests can also indicate
hepatitis.
Ketek has been linked to liver failure. Liver failure is categorized
depending on the rapidity of onset. Acute liver failure develops rapidly, but
chronic liver failure may take months or years to develop. By definition, liver
failure occurs when the liver is so diseased and functioning so poorly, that
brain damage is evident. Any progressive liver disease can result in liver
failure; examples include: acetaminophen toxicity, cirrhosis, viral hepatitis,
and metastatic cancer of the liver. Other signs of liver disease such as
jaundice, ascites (excess fluid in the peritoneal cavity), fetor hepaticus (a
sweetish odor associated with liver failure), and failure of coagulation
indicate that the liver is having trouble performing its normal physiological
duties, but it is not termed liver failure until the mental status changes
appear.
Liver failure treatment involves correcting any underlying cause, if possible.
Even when the cause is identified and treated, the progression to complete liver
failure may be irreversible. In this case, steps are taken to slow down the
decline of liver function. The patient's diet is restricted. Protein consumption
is kept at optimal levels. If protein consumption is too high, it can cause
brain dysfunction, but too little may cause weight loss. Alcohol must be
completely avoided. Keeping sodium consumption down helps to prevent the
accumulation of fluid in the abdomen. Liver dialysis is evolving as a treatment
modality and is pending U.S. approval. Liver transplantation is the definitive
treatment for liver failure, but is not an option for all patients and the
supply of livers is severely limited. Some medication may be given to relieve
the symptoms of liver failure.
Does it make sense to develop liver failure in order to cure bacterial
pneumonia and sinus infections?
Have you taken Ketek and have been hospitalized with hepatitis? Have you
or a family member faced liver failure or needed a liver transplant due to using
Ketek?
You may qualify for a Ketek lawsuit. To find out more,
complete the no-obligation FREE consultation and an expert Ketek lawyer will
contact you.
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