Individuals who undergo pancreatic resection are at increased risk of developing hepatic steatosis. Glucagon is a key regulator of hepatic glucose, amino acids, and lipid metabolism, and the change in circulating glucagon is suggested to contribute to the pathogenesis of postoperative steatotic liver disease. Here, we aimed to elucidate hepatic and metabolic changes induced by pancreatic resection. Fifty individuals scheduled to undergo pancreatic surgery were recruited and evaluated by blood samples and a liver biopsy obtained during surgery. One year after surgery, 21 eligible participants (15 following pancreaticoduodenectomy, 6 following total pancreatectomy) met for a follow-up visit, with the remaining being excluded because of recurrent disease, comorbidities, or death. Follow-up MRS indicated increased liver fat in 12 of 19 participants despite a mean numerical decrease in body weight. Five eligible participants underwent a liver biopsy at follow-up, demonstrating increased liver fat content (largest individual increase: 80 percentage points). Circulating glucagon and C-peptide were significantly reduced at follow-up, with no detection of either following total pancreatectomy. No significant changes in fasting plasma glucose or HbA1c were observed, attributed to relevant exogenous insulin supplementation. Amino acids were markedly increased after both pancreaticoduodenectomy and total pancreatectomy, correlating negatively with remnant endocrine pancreatic function. In conclusion, our data suggest that reduced circulating glucagon levels may contribute to the increased liver fat content and hyperaminoacidemia observed after pancreatic resection. ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS:Previous studies have demonstrated increased risk of hepatic steatosis in patients following pancreatic resection, which might be linked to decreased pancreatic function. Here, we evaluated liver fat content, circulating pancreatic hormones, amino acids, and more, before and 1 year after either total pancreatectomy or pancreaticoduodenectomy. At 1-year follow-up, we found increased liver fat content in more than half (63%) of the participants, evaluated both by liver histology and magnetic resonance imaging. The participants were characterized by hyperaminoacidemia, which correlated negatively with remnant endocrine pancreatic function. These findings further elucidate the relationship between glucagon, circulating amino acids, and hepatic metabolism.

Modern healthcare requires clinicians to navigate through complex drug treatments. This review offers an overview of sources of drug information which can be used for general medication prescription and for challenging patient populations. Key considerations for pregnant or breastfeeding patients, those with renal impairment, and those with liver dysfunction are discussed. We also touch on adverse drug reactions and drug interactions. Finally, information about services from independent regional drug information centers, that can be used by clinicians, are provided.

Summary This article examines five cases where unintended adverse reactions have led to new therapeutic outcomes. The cases cover subsequent applications of acetylsalicylic acid, sildenafil, thalidomide, domperidone, and disulfiram. These examples demonstrate the versatility of drugs in addressing diverse medical challenges. The discussion highlights the importance of analyzing adverse drug reactions to identify therapeutic opportunities arising from adverse reactions.

Bile acid diarrhoea is a socially debilitating disease caused by irritation of the colonic mucosa due to a spillover of bile acids from the small intestine into the colon. Studies estimate a prevalence of 1-2% of the adult population, but many patients never seek help or are misdiagnosed. Bile acid diarrhoea is treated with bile acid sequestrants, however, new research shows superior effect on reported symptoms with the glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist liraglutide.