possible liver toxicity in patients taking Ketek (telithromycin)

March 2006

Health Canada is warning about possible liver toxicity in patients taking Ketek (telithromycin).

This stems from 3 recent international reports of liver damage...resulting in one liver transplant and one death.

Health Canada is also investigating Canadian cases of less serious liver-related problems with Ketek.

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Table of Contents

updated guidelines on menopausal treatment
Cardiology LOW-dose vitamin K supplements to stabilize the effect of warfarin in certain patients
Cardiology Ranexa (ranolazine) for chronic angina
whether saw palmetto is effective for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Some experts are now saying NOT to rely on soy protein or isoflavone supplements to prevent heart disease
Diabetes & Endocrinology Somavert is a new treatment option for acromegaly
Diabetes whether sulfonylureas increase mortality
Diabetes The new inhaled insulin, Exubera, is getting patients excited
Kidney Disease Even patients with SEVERE kidney disease seem to benefit from ACE inhibitors
Obesity & Weight Loss Acomplia and OTC orlistat for weight loss
Statins how to monitor for myopathy in patients taking statins
Canadians may not be able to get epinephrine inhalers (Primatene Mist, etc) from the U.S. anymore
Infectious Diseases possible liver toxicity in patients taking Ketek (telithromycin)
Infectious Diseases Health Canada is advising NOT to use Tequin (gatifloxacin) in patients with diabetes
Pertussis the need for timely pertussis vaccinations and booster doses