Elevated GGT and ALT

I am a 51 year old white male who weighs 220 pounds. I usually consume an average of 6-10 beers a day sometimes more on the weekends. I have recently had liver functions tests done. The results were as follows
AST 33  ALT 68  GGT 121.
All else was normal. I take Zocar for high cholesterol and Nexium 40 mg daily. Also a couple of weeks prior to the liver tests I took Tagamet. Could you tell me if the alchol and medication combination could cause elevated GGT and ALT?? Do I need an ultrasound of my abdomen and my liver or just my liver. Also would it help for me to have the liver function test repeated after stopping all medications and alcohol consumption. How long does it take for all alcohol and medications to get out of someone's system?? Thank You

[Kevin Pho, MD]

It is certainly possible that either the Zocor and alcohol (or both) can be causing the elevation in liver enzymes.  With the alcohol however, the AST is typically elevated over the ALT - although nothing is 100%.  

In any case, I would consider abstaining from alcohol or Zocor and then repeating the enzymes to see if they decrease.  Further workup would include a viral hepatitis screen, as well as a liver ultrasound to evaluate for any anatomical abnormality or fatty liver.  

As to how long it takes to get out of the system - there is no set time (it varies from patient to patient), but I would estimate a few weeks to be sure.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

[elizabner]

In your response to my question you stated that you would consider abstaining from alcohol or Zocar then repeating the enzyme test to see if they decrease. Do you recommended abstaining from both Zocor and alcohol or either one or the other? Just a little confused! Thanks a lot.