How long before a liver function test should one avoid taking medication?

Jan 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

The time to discontinue medication before liver function tests depends on the type of drug. For medications that do not impair liver function, it is recommended to wait 48 hours after discontinuation before testing. For drugs that may damage liver function or have hepatotoxic effects, testing should be conducted three days after stopping the medication. Additionally, patients should fast before the test and avoid alcohol consumption and strenuous exercise, as these factors may interfere with diagnostic results.

Generally speaking, liver function tests refer to the assessment of liver function. The time required to stop taking medication before a liver function test mainly depends on the type of drug. If the medication does not harm the liver, it is generally recommended to avoid taking it for 48 hours before the test. If the medication may damage liver function, it is recommended to stop taking it three days before the test. If in doubt, it is advisable to seek medical advice. Detailed explanations are as follows:

If the current medication being used does not damage liver function and is not hepatotoxic, it is generally advised to stop taking the medication 48 hours before the test. These drugs have relatively short half-lives, and after 48 hours, their components are typically metabolized and eliminated from the body, thus not interfering with the diagnostic results.

If the current medication being used may damage liver function and is hepatotoxic, it is generally advised to stop taking the medication three days before undergoing the test. These drugs have longer half-lives, and testing within a shorter timeframe might result in serum precipitation, thereby interfering with the diagnostic results and leading to inaccurate findings.

It should also be noted that fasting is required before undergoing a liver function test. Additionally, alcohol consumption and strenuous exercise should be avoided, as these factors may interfere with the diagnostic results.

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How much does a liver function test cost at a hospital?

The cost of liver function tests typically ranges from 50 to 500 yuan per session, but the exact price may be affected by factors such as specific test items, regional living expenses, individual circumstances, discounts for special groups, and hospital promotional activities. Basic tests are less expensive, while comprehensive panels cost more. Testing fees tend to be lower in areas with a lower cost of living and higher in more expensive regions. Patients with medical insurance usually pay less due to higher reimbursement rates, whereas those without insurance may face higher costs.

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Is it necessary to fast before a liver function test?

When undergoing liver function tests, it is generally necessary to remain fasting to ensure the accuracy of the test results. After eating, food is metabolized by the liver, which may cause changes in the concentration of certain components in the blood. Particularly after consuming high-protein or high-fat meals, liver enzymes such as transaminases and serum proteins may increase, potentially leading to inaccurate test results.

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How much does a liver function test cost?

The cost of liver function tests may range from 100 to 500 yuan per session, but it could be affected by factors such as the specific test items, testing methods, regional differences, additional services, and special circumstances. Generally, basic tests, traditional methods, cities of lower tiers, and absence of special circumstances may result in lower costs. Conversely, the costs may increase.

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Is a liver function test done by drawing blood?

Under normal circumstances, a blood sample needs to be drawn to test liver function. It is important to maintain good lifestyle habits, ensure adequate sleep, and reduce the frequency of staying up late and alcohol consumption to alleviate the burden on the liver. At the same time, maintaining a balanced diet with proper nutrition, consuming more fresh vegetables and fruits, and reducing intake of greasy, high-calorie, and high-fat foods can help maintain normal liver function.