Nexium/Pepcid and abnormal blood labs

[daw]

I would like to hear from anyone that had blood work abnormalities (specifically liver function and billirubin values) caused by Nexium, Pepcid or any other PPI or H2Blocker. Thanks

[Emily]

Hi Daw,

My bilirubin and ALT/AST liver enzymes are slightly elevated.
I started taking Aciphex 4/00. In October, 2000 my labs were elevated, not by much.
I have been off Aciphex since Feb. 03 (taking Pepcid AC) and my bilirubin and enzymes are still over the norm.
My GI doc is now wanting me to be tested for hemochromatosis.
I don't know what his thinking is. I believe it is more for the bilirubin being elevated. That was up way before Aciphex.
Let me know what you find out for yourself. I'm in the dark as to why this is happening.
Thanks, Emily

[daw]

Hi Emily,
My liver enzyme (ALT) has been slightly elevated since I started Nexium and Pepcid. Both meds can cause abnormal labs in a small percentage of the population. My direct bilirubin was elevated once before taking GERD meds and the indirect bilirubin was elevated this last time I had labs done. My GI doc tested me for everything including hepatitis. Everything was negative. A listing of my lab work can be found at:
http://forums.heartburn-help.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1583
Ultrasound of gallbladder was negative, CT of abdomen was negative, MRCP (MRI of bile ducts) was normal. Since Gallbladder problems can mess up liver enzymes also, I'm thinking about a Hida Scan. My money is on the Gallbladder but if it turns out to be the meds then I guess I have some serious decisions to make because if I try to decrease either med, my symptoms come back.

As for your doctor wanting to test for hemochromatosis....that is definitely because of a bilirubin elevation.

[Emily]

Hi Daw,
I did not mention in my previous post that my gallbladder was removed in 5/00. That is when all my reflux problems started. My direct and indirect bilirubin had been elevated before the surgery and since. The doctor wanted to do a liver biopsy two years ago and I opted not to do so. Maybe down the road I will. So for me, I am not sure that the Aciphex and/or Pepcid is the culprit with my elevated bilirubin/liver enzyme levels. Looking for the answers is quite frustrating. Take care,
Emily