Should I take liver-protecting medication if my transaminase level is 70 U/L?
Nov 09, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Xuemei
Introduction
In general, whether a patient with an alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level of 70 U/L needs to take hepatoprotective medication should be determined based on a comprehensive assessment of their clinical condition. If the elevated ALT level is due to physiological factors, hepatoprotective drugs are usually not required. However, if the elevation is caused by an underlying disease, hepatoprotective treatment may be necessary. Patients experiencing discomfort or symptoms should seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital.
In general, whether a patient with an alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level of 70 U/L needs to take liver-protecting medication should be determined based on a comprehensive assessment of their specific condition. If the elevated ALT is due to physiological factors, medication is usually not necessary. However, if the elevation is caused by an underlying disease, liver-protective drugs may be required. The details are as follows:
1. Not necessary
Transaminases are a group of enzymes that catalyze the transfer of amino groups between amino acids and keto acids. The normal reference range for transaminases is 0–40 U/L. A level of 70 U/L is considered mildly elevated. If the elevation is due to long-term heavy alcohol consumption causing liver cell damage, patients can improve their condition by adjusting their diet—specifically by abstaining from alcohol and avoiding spicy or irritating foods such as chili peppers. After a period of lifestyle and dietary adjustments, liver function typically improves, and liver-protective medications are generally not required.
2. Necessary
If the elevated transaminase level of 70 U/L is associated with conditions such as viral hepatitis or fatty liver disease, treatment may be necessary. In such cases, patients should take liver-protective medications under a doctor's guidance, such as Hepatoprotective Tablets or Compound Glycyrrhizin Tablets. When needed, intravenous medications like reduced glutathione for injection or tiopronin for injection may also be used as directed by a physician.
If patients experience any discomfort or symptoms, they are advised to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
