Are the variations in my AST and ALT due to the tablets Prozac, Xanax, and Aspirin?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had variations in my liver enzymes for more than seven years. My cholesterol level is also constantly high. The reports show AST as 39 IU/L and ALT as 43 IU/L. I currently take tablets Prozac, Xanax, and Aspirin. Are my increased liver values due to these medications?

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for the query.

I can understand your concern. According to your statement, you have recently done liver function tests, and your AST (aspirated transaminase), as well as ALT (alanine aminotransferase), has become higher than the normal range.

Prozac contains Fluoxetine that belongs to the group of antidepressant medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. It is used in the treatment of depression. Fluoxetine like Prozac can cause transient asymptomatic elevations in serum aminotransferase levels like AST and ALT in about 0.5% of patients.

Xanax contains Alprazolam that belongs to the group of medications known as benzodiazepines, and it is used to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks, depression, etc. Alprazolam like Xanax may also cause elevated liver enzymes like ALT, AST. Consumption of alcohol along with Xanax may hasten liver damage. Another medication called Aspirin can also cause elevation of aminotransferases like AST and ALT.

Usually, stopping these medications or reducing the doses will help to get back the normal range of aminotransferases like AST and ALT over time.

Your AST and ALT levels are not so high to indicate anything serious, and one abnormal blood test does not confirm anything. So, you can consult your prescribing doctor regarding the elevation of liver enzymes caused by your current medications.

Take care.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Thank you for the query.

As I have already mentioned, your AST and ALT levels do not indicate anything serious, and one abnormal blood test does not confirm anything. Your liver enzymes are above average according to the specific laboratory results. According to the examination methods and normal range, your liver enzymes are slightly elevated in that particular laboratory.

Take plenty of rest and fluids, avoid fatty and oily foods, repeat your liver function tests separately on two different laboratories, and then compare the liver function tests to confirm that your liver function is abnormal.

Take care.