Clorazepate-

An. jan.dice A 27·year-old man was treated with potassium c10razepate (ISmg increased to 30mg/day) for depression. No other drugs were given. After 2 months, jaundice and fever were noted. Clorazepate was continued for a further 6 weeks at which time the patient felt well but icterus and a large 4-finger. firm liver were still present. Bilirubin, alkaline phophatase, SGOT, . SGPT and Y - GTP levels were all elevated. After 5 months, enzyme and bilirubin levels returned to normal and jaundice disappeared. Liver biopsy showed

centrilobular cholestasis. focal liver cell necrosis. single eel! eosinophilic necros is and reactive Kupffer cell hyperplasia. The manufacturers have no reports of liver damage due (0 ciorazepa.te but the Committee on Safety of Medicines in the \J K have 2 records of jaundice (other drugs may also have been taken). It is suggested that c!orazepate should not be given to patients with liver dysftrnction and discontinued immediately if jaundice is observed . Parker. J.t .\\" l'uSlgr.duale Medical j ournal 55, 90 S

IDee 19 79)

0157-7271/80/ 0208·0003/0 $00.50/0 CADIS Press Reactions 6 Feb 1980 3