Drug-Induced Liver Injury: Causes, Signs, and Medications That Risk Your Liver

When your liver gets hurt because of a medication, it’s called drug-induced liver injury, liver damage caused by pharmaceuticals or supplements, not by viruses or alcohol. Also known as drug-induced hepatotoxicity, it’s one of the most common reasons people end up in the hospital for unexpected liver problems. This isn’t rare. It happens with painkillers, antibiotics, antidepressants, and even herbal products like St. John’s Wort. Your liver is your body’s main filter, and when it’s overloaded or confused by a drug, it can start to shut down — sometimes without warning.

Some drugs directly poison liver cells. Others trigger your immune system to attack your own liver by mistake. And then there are the ones that mess with how your body processes other meds — like acid-reducing pills that change stomach pH and stop other drugs from being absorbed properly. That’s why St. John’s Wort, a popular herbal supplement that interferes with how the liver breaks down many drugs can be dangerous when taken with antidepressants or birth control. Same goes for Teriflunomide, a multiple sclerosis drug that requires regular liver function tests. Even common pain relievers like acetaminophen — when taken too long or too much — can cause serious liver damage. It’s not about being careless. Sometimes, your genes, age, or other meds you’re taking make you more vulnerable.

Older adults are at higher risk because their livers process drugs slower. People with existing liver conditions, diabetes, or obesity are also more likely to see trouble. The scary part? You might not feel anything until your liver enzymes are already through the roof. Fatigue, nausea, yellow skin, dark urine — these are late signs. Early on, it’s often silent. That’s why doctors check liver function before and during treatment with certain drugs. If you’re on long-term meds, ask: Could this be hurting my liver? It’s not paranoia. It’s smart.

Below, you’ll find real-world guides on how specific drugs affect your liver, what to watch for, and how to avoid dangerous combinations. From how antibiotics build up over time to why some supplements sneak in under the radar, these posts give you the facts — not the hype. No fluff. Just what you need to protect your liver while staying on your meds.