Hepatitis associated with co-amoxiclav [clavulanate potentiated amoxicillin] therapy

A 60-year-old male developed a hepatitis-like syndrome following co-amoxiclav therapy for respiratory infection. Non-specific hepatitis was considered as a diagnosis. A similar attack occurred 2 months later on the third day of co-amoxiclav therapy administered for recurrent respiratory infection. On discontinuation of the treatment, recovery was prompt and complete, with liver enzymes dropping to normal levels. This case illustrates the possibility of a hypersensitivity reaction to co-amoxiclav when the patient was rechallenged. The recent literature documenting hepatic side-effects associated with co-amoxiclav is reviewed