Could cocaine use two days before blood draw cause the LFTs to be elevated?

Question

Hello doctor,

Could cocaine use two days before blood draw cause the LFTs (ALT=90 and AST=86) to be elevated? If so, how long of an abstinence period (not using cocaine) would be needed to get LFTs back down to normal levels?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. I have read through your query in detail.

Please find my observations below.

Taking cocaine two days earlier can increase the LFTs.
- LFTs can also be raised due to many causes including liver infection, increased alcohol intake, intake of toxic chemicals including cocaine, presence of gall stones, increased intake of fatty foods among others.
  - Usually AST and ALT levels of up to 40 units is considered in normal range.
    - Your levels are 90 and 86 and this is just twice that of normal. It is not a serious concern but attempts should be made to identify any other cause clinically and then treat the particular condition.
      - After cocaine intake, LFTs usually return to normal levels within 1 to 2 weeks.
        
        Please note that you also have to reduce other factors that might contribute to increased LFTs like alcohol intake and fatty foods.
        
        It is also suggested to get an ultrasound scan of abdomen to look for any suspected liver injury.
        
        You can stop taking cocaine for at least 2 weeks and then get the LFTs repeated for accurate results.
        
        Revert back to a general medicine physician online for further follow up.