The effects of food restriction in man on hepatic metabolism of acetaminophen.
BACKGROUND
Recent reports have suggested that food deprivation may contribute to acetaminophen hepatotoxicity by shunting drug detoxification from the conjugative to the potentially toxic oxidative pathways.


METHODS
This study assessed this concept in a prospective study of food restriction of 500 calories/day over 5 days and also of 1000 calories/day over 13 days. Obese, otherwise normal, individuals received 2 g acetaminophen orally at the start and again after food restriction. Sequential liver tests, as well as serum and urine acetaminophen and its derivatives were measured.


RESULTS
In both food-restricted groups there was no evidence of any change in the elimination or in the metabolic pattern of acetaminophen removal. Liver tests remained normal. The average weight loss was about 6 pounds.


CONCLUSIONS
Our data, with this brief, but major degree of food restriction, and this load of acetaminophen (half-maximal daily dose), do not demonstrate an effect of caloric restriction on acetaminophen disposition.
Schenker
S
S
Department of Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA.
Speeg
K V
KV
Perez
A
A
Finch
J
J
D000082:Acetaminophen / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*; D000284:Administration, Oral; D000328:Adult; D018712:Analgesics, Non-Narcotic / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*; D004038:Diet, Reducing; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008099:Liver / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009765:Obesity / Q000378:metabolism*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013997:Time Factors; D015431:Weight Loss
D018712:Analgesics, Non-Narcotic; D000082:Acetaminophen