Retrospective analysis of risk factors for levofloxacin-induced liver injury

Abstract

Levofloxacin is used as a first-line drug for the treatment of Legionella pneumonia. However, the relatively high incidence of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) remains a clinical problem. Based on the available patient data, this study aimed to identify the risk factors for DILI before levofloxacin administration. Multiple logistic regression analyses suggested that male sex (odds ratio [OR], 6.975; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.737–28.000; p = 0.006), elevated C-reactive protein level (OR, 1.182; 95% CI, 1.089–1.283; p = 0.0006), and high haemoglobin level (OR, 1.640; 95% CI, 1.226–2.195; p = 0.001) before administration of levofloxacin were risk factors for DILI. Possible treatment with alternative drugs should be considered in male patients with elevated C-reactive protein and haemoglobin levels. Moreover, close monitoring of liver function tests when levofloxacin is administered may prevent the development and severity of DILI.