Ketek Antibiotic Linked to Liver Failure

Ketek Antibiotic and Liver Failure

Ketek antibiotic has been linked to liver failure. Liver failure is the final stage of liver disease. Liver failure is categorized depending on the rapidity of onset. Acute liver failure develops rapidly, but chronic liver failure may take months or years to develop. By definition, liver failure occurs when the liver is so diseased and functioning so poorly, that brain damage is evident. Any progressive liver disease can result in liver failure.

Examples of liver failure include: acetaminophen toxicity, cirrhosis, viral hepatitis, and metastatic cancer of the liver. Other signs of liver disease such as jaundice, ascites (excess fluid in the peritoneal cavity), fetor hepaticus (a sweetish odor associated with liver failure), and failure of coagulation indicate that the liver is having trouble performing its normal physiological duties, but it is not termed liver failure until the mental status changes appear.

Liver failure treatment involves correcting any underlying cause, if possible. Even when the cause is identified and treated, the progression to complete Ketek liver failure may be irreversible. In this case, steps are taken to slow down the decline of liver function. The patient's diet is restricted. Protein consumption is kept at optimal levels. If protein consumption is too high, it can cause brain dysfunction, but too little may cause weight loss. Alcohol must be completely avoided. Another step is keeping sodium consumption down helps to prevent the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen.

Liver dialysis is evolving as a treatment modality and is pending U.S. approval. Liver transplantation/liver transplant is the definitive treatment for liver failure, but is not an option for all patients and the supply of livers is severely limited. Some medication may be given to relieve the symptoms of liver failure.

Has a loved one suffered liver failure caused by taking Ketek for a bacterial infection? If yes, the time is right to consult a Ketek law firm about a Ketek compensation lawsuit. Take the first step by filling out this short pre-case Ketek fact-finding form.

Click here for a free Ketek case evaluation!.