[Hepatotoxicity caused by therapeutic doses of paracetamol in alcoholics. Report of 2 cases of fatal hepatitis in cirrhosis]

Abstract

Paracetamol is a widely used medication as it is an effective analgesic and antipyretic. Because of the absence of gastro-intestinal side effects, it has been used as the analgesic of choice for alcoholic patients. Hepatotoxicity is dose-related and generally occurs in patients who absorb more than 125 mg/kg/j. However, cases of severe liver damage have been reported after absorption of therapeutic doses of paracetamol in alcoholics. We report 2 cases with a fatal outcome and discuss the mechanisms of toxicity, the prognostic factors and treatment of such event.