Liver disease is a widespread and increasing problem throughout the world, however little is published on how different types and degrees of liver dysfunction affect the body's ability to handle medicines. Drugs and the Liver is designed to assist practitioners in making pragmatic choices for their patients. It aims to: enable the practitioner to assess liver function using biochemical markers, other tests, signs, symptoms and disease knowledge; identify which pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters of a drug are likely to be affected by different types of liver disease; and consider the impact of a drug's side effects on a patient with liver disease.This practical guide covers background information on liver function, the principles of drug use in liver disease and includes a section of worked examples of commonly asked questions. It will be invaluable to clinical pharmacists and anyone making medicine choices in patients with liver impairment.
Part 1 - Understanding Liver Function; 1. Introduction to the Anatomy of the Liver; 2. Functions of the Liver; 3. Causes of Liver Disease and Dysfunction; 4. Assessing Liver Function; Part 2 - Principles of Drug Use in Liver Disease; 5. Pharmacokinetics of Drugs in Liver Disease; 6. Undesirable Side Effects; Part 3 - Putting the Theory into Practice; 7. Applying the Principles - introduction; 8. Introducing the Aide Memoire; 9. Scenario 1 Choice of Analgesia; 10. Scenario 2 Choice of Anti-emetic; 11. Scenario 3 Choice of Anti-hyperlipidaemic Agent; 12. Scenario 4 Choice of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT); 13. Scenario 5 Choice of Contraceptive; Appendix 1 - Detailed Description of the Patient Cases; Appendix 2 - The Blank Aide Memoire Form.
