Posted by Larry Hoover on September 10, 2009, at 20:40:16
In reply to How dangerous is Serzone, posted by chowdha on September 10, 2009, at 19:04:57
I happen to have just investigated the risk of liver failure due to nefazodone, arising from a debate elsewhere. The risk is real, but very rare. In relative terms, the risk of liver failure is about the same as from using acetaminophen/paracetamol (Tylenol), both about 5 cases per million users per year. The background rate is 1.8 unexplained cases of liver failure per million people per year.
The FDA decided that nefazodone could remain on the market despite the rare but serious risk of liver failure. Canada withdrew it from the market. I think Canada's argument for that was flawed, as they stated that other agents could offer similar benefits without the risk, despite the fact that some people receive benefits from Serzone that have not been demonstrated with other agents.
If you find a doctor who will prescribe it for you, you should ensure that you receive a series of liver function tests to monitor your condition. You should also familiarize yourself with signs and symptoms of liver disease. If you discontinue the drug in time, the symptoms are nearly always reversible.
Lar
poster:Larry Hoover
thread:916400
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20090902/msgs/916431.html