Drug-induced acute pancreatitis: further criticism.

A comprehensive literature search was performed to collect all available data on drug-induced pancreatitis. Strong evidence for an association with acute pancreatitis has been described for anticholinesterases, calcium 2',3'-dideoxyinosine, estrogen, L-asparaginase, salicylates, thiazide-diuretics, valproic acid, and vinca alkaloids. Weak evidence has been found for antituberculous agents, azathioprine, biguanides, cisplatinum, cyclosporine A, H2-blocking agents, loop diuretics, 6-mercaptopurine, metronidazole, pentamidine, steroids, sulfonamides, sulindac and tetracycline. Many cases were associated with underlying conditions known to induce acute pancreatitis themselves. It is concluded that for none of the drugs studied the available data are consistent enough to support a definite association with acute pancreatitis. Nevertheless, the data suggest that drugs may be a trigger or a cofactor in inducing pancreatitis.