Niacin (Vitamin B3)-Induced Acute Fulminant Hepatic Failure in a 24-Year-Old Female

Abstract

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a rare, life-threatening condition characterized by acute severe liver injury, encephalopathy, and coagulopathy in the absence of prior liver disease. The causes of ALF are broad and varied worldwide, commonly including triggers such as drugs (predominantly paracetamol) in developed countries and viral infections in developing nations. Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial in acute fulminant liver failure as highlighted in this case of a 24-year-old female with ALF secondary to vitamin B3 overdosing. This study further highlights the need for a high degree of clinical suspicion that physicians need to ascertain the cause of acute liver failure, the complexity of its management, and the significant harm unnecessary dietary supplementation can result in. This is a crucial example of why healthcare professionals need to educate their patients about the potential adverse consequences of dietary supplements.