Fatal fulminant hepatic failure induced by a natural therapy containing kava.
We describe a case of acute liver failure and death associated with the use of a preparation containing the "natural" anxiolytic kava (Piper methysticum) and passionflower (Passiflora incarnata). The patient died after a report by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) warning of the potential for hepatotoxicity associated with the use of kava-containing products. The general public and alternative medicine practitioners need to be aware of the potential for non-prescription drugs to cause serious hepatic reactions.
Gastroenterology Unit, Austin and Repatriation Medical Centre, Melbourne, VIC. paul.gow@armc.org.au
Paul J
PJ
Gow
Nathan J
NJ
Connelly
Richard L
RL
Hill
Peter
P
Crowley
Peter W
PW
Angus
D000529:Complementary Therapies / Q000379:methods; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020901:Kava / Q000009:adverse effects*; D017093:Liver Failure / Q000139:chemically induced*; D008875:Middle Aged; D029598:Passiflora / Q000009:adverse effects; D008517:Phytotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D028321:Plant Preparations / Q000009:adverse effects*
D028321:Plant Preparations