TOXICITY AND EFFECT OF ANTIBIOTIC DRUGS ON (LIVER ENZYMES) PATIENTS ATTENDING STATE SPECIALIST HOSPITAL GOMBE

Antibiotics are among the most commonly prescribed medications globally, essential for combating bacterial infections and preventing their spread. However, the administration of these drugs carries inherent risks, particularly hepatotoxicity, which may manifest as impaired liver function or systemic inflammation. In particular, alterations in serum albumin and globulin levels and their ratio are recognized as markers of liver dysfunction and immune response. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of antibiotic use on liver function among patients attending Specialist Hospital, Gombe, through analysis of albumin and globulin levels in relation to antibiotic exposure.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed. Patient records (n = 30) were reviewed for antibiotic prescriptions and corresponding liver function test results. Albumin and globulin levels were categorized as normal or abnormal and correlated with drug history, including duration and intensity of antibiotic use. Data analyses were conducted using Microsoft Excel and Word. Ethical approval was obtained, and patient confidentiality was maintained.Results: Among the patients, 52% exhibited abnormal albumin levels, while 65.2% showed abnormal globulin levels—suggesting liver dysfunction and systemic inflammatory response. The most common drug history pattern was high antibiotic consumption (short- or long-term combined, 56%), correlating with higher rates of protein abnormalities. These findings underscore a significant association between prolonged or intensive antibiotic use and disrupted liver biomarkers.Current literature confirms that antibiotic-induced liver injury, though generally rare and often idiosyncratic, can lead to cholestatic or mixed hepatotoxicity, especially with agents like amoxicillin–clavulanate, macrolides, and fluoroquinolones. Changes in albumin and globulin levels—and a reduced albumin-to-globulin ratio—are recognized indicators of inflammation and impaired hepatic synthesis. Conclusions: The elevated prevalence of abnormal liver protein markers among antibiotic-exposed patients suggests a potential hepatotoxic effect or heightened inflammatory response linked with antibiotic use. These findings highlight the need for routine liver function monitoring—especially albumin and globulin levels—in patients undergoing prolonged or high-dose antibiotic therapy. Future studies incorporating ALT, AST, and bilirubin measurements could strengthen causal inferences.