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1: Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2008 Feb;6(2):255-8. Epub 2008 Jan 9.Click here to read Links

Methasteron-associated cholestatic liver injury: clinicopathologic findings in 5 cases.

Shah NL, Zacharias I, Khettry U, Afdhal N, Gordon FD.

Department of Gastroenterology, Lahey Clinic Medical Center, Burlington, Massachusetts 01805, USA.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Methasteron is a nutritional supplement used to increase weight or accelerate the build-up of muscle mass. The aim of this study was to describe 5 cases of hepatotoxicity in patients using methasteron seen at tertiary-care medical centers. METHODS: A case report design was used. RESULTS: Five previously healthy patients who used methasteron developed jaundice 2 weeks after discontinuation; they presented to a tertiary-care medical center 2 weeks later. Within another 2 to 3 weeks, bilirubin levels peaked. About 12 weeks after initial presentation, all cases resolved with no identifiable residual hepatic dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS: Methasteron use can result in severe hepatotoxicity. Liver failure can worsen after initial presentation, especially within 2 weeks. With close observation and supportive care, acute hepatic injury should resolve.

PMID: 18187367 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]