Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced hepatic disorders. Incidence and prevention.

The nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most frequently used medications worldwide for the treatment of a variety of common chronic and acute inflammatory conditions. The association between NSAIDs and liver disease is poorly documented, the exceptions being sulindac and, to a lesser degree, diclofenac. The incidence of liver disease is very low and is relatively unimportant compared with the risk of peptic ulcer disease and gastrointestinal bleeding. Reports of hepatic injury range from insignificant and transient liver enzyme elevation to severe and fulminant hepatitis.