Oxacillin hepatitis. Two patients with liver biopsy, and review of the literature

Abstract

Hepatotoxicity associated with intravenous sodium oxacillin therapy is reported in two drug abusers cured of staphylococcal endocarditis. Coincident with the administration of oxacillin, marked increases in hepatic transaminase were observed and liver biopsy showed nonspecific hepatitis. Upon cessation of oxacillin therapy, liver enzyme values returned to(ward) normal. Reports of oxacillin-associated changes in hepatic enzyme levels are reviewed; further observation of oxacillin-associated hepatotoxicity is warranted.