Pemoline hepatotoxicity ranges from asymptomatic elevations in levels
of serum aminotransferases to fulminant liver failure. We report five
cases of pemoline hepatotoxicity in children (four boys, one girl), in
cluding the only reported case resulting in orthotopic liver transplan
tation. We conclude that pemoline causes toxic liver damage in childre
n. The severity of the damage is highly variable, and its onset may be
late in the course of treatment. Pemoline and methylphenidate may act
synergistically to cause liver damage. The levels of serum aminotrans
ferases should be monitored throughout treatment with these agents.