Ingestion of Minoxidil Associated with Elevated Transaminases in the Absence of Ischemic Hepatitis

September 2023 in “ Translational medicine reports ”

Elaine Shanahan, C. J. Mitchell, Richard Chen, Steven J. Walsh

minoxidil elevated transaminases aspartate aminotransferase alanine aminotransferase hypotension tachycardia pulmonary edema isotonic crystalloid N-acetylcysteine phenylephrine midodrine Rogaine AST ALT low blood pressure fast heart rate fluid in lungs IV fluids NAC

Studysummary This case study reported that an 18-year-old woman ingested a large amount of topical minoxidil, leading to symptoms like low blood pressure, increased heart rate, and elevated liver enzymes, but recovered fully after treatment. Minoxidil toxicity may rarely cause abnormal liver enzyme levels.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

A previously healthy 18-year-old woman ingested 60 mL of 5% topical minoxidil solution and presented with hypotension, tachycardia, and elevated liver enzymes (aspartate and alanine aminotransferases at 224 and 384 IU/L, respectively). Despite the absence of acetaminophen and ethanol, she developed pulmonary edema and required treatment with isotonic crystalloid, N-acetylcysteine, phenylephrine, and midodrine. She fully recovered and was discharged 108 hours post-ingestion. This case suggests that minoxidil toxicity can cause elevated transaminase levels, indicating potential liver involvement.

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