When starting a new medication — especially one you’ll be taking long term — it’s natural to wonder what impact it might have on your body. One of the most frequent questions we hear at Everest Pharmacy is: Do I need a liver test before taking this?

The answer depends on a few key factors, including the type of medicine, your health history, and whether you’re already showing signs of liver strain. At Everest Pharmacy, we offer fast, discreet blood testing services in Lancashire, including liver function tests (LFTs), to give you peace of mind and ensure you’re starting treatment safely.

Here’s what you need to know — and how we can help.

What Is a Liver Test?

A liver test, or liver function test (LFT), is a simple blood test that measures levels of specific enzymes and proteins in your blood. These markers help assess how well your liver is working and whether there may be any signs of inflammation or damage.

Key indicators tested include:

ALT and AST – enzymes that can rise when the liver is under stress

ALP – may indicate issues in the bile ducts or liver

Bilirubin – a waste product processed by the liver; raised levels can suggest a problem

Albumin – a protein produced by the liver; low levels may signal liver dysfunction

An LFT gives a useful snapshot of your liver’s health and can help guide decisions about your medication.

When Is a Liver Test Recommended?

A liver test is especially useful before starting medications that are known to impact the liver or require long-term use. This includes:

1. Statins (Cholesterol-Lowering Medications)

Statins are highly effective for reducing cholesterol, but they can cause mild elevations in liver enzymes. Before starting treatment, a liver test helps ensure your liver is healthy enough to process the medication.

2. Strong Antibiotics or Antifungals

Some antibiotics (like erythromycin or rifampicin) and antifungals (like fluconazole) are metabolised by the liver. If you’re prescribed a high dose or long course, your GP or pharmacist may recommend a liver test beforehand.

3. Painkillers and Anti-inflammatories

Long-term use of paracetamol, NSAIDs (like ibuprofen), or prescription painkillers can strain the liver over time. A baseline test is wise if you’ll be taking them regularly — especially if you also drink alcohol or have a history of liver problems.

4. Hormonal Medications

Drugs like contraceptives, HRT, or steroids can also have effects on liver function. Monitoring your liver early can avoid issues down the line.

What If I Already Take Medication?

If you’ve been on a medication for a while, or are taking more than one type of drug that affects the liver, an annual liver test is a sensible way to check everything is still on track. At Everest Pharmacy, we can help you stay on top of your health without the need for a GP referral or long wait.

Fast, Private Liver Testing at Everest Pharmacy

We know that waiting weeks for an NHS appointment isn’t always ideal — especially when you want to start treatment or feel reassured sooner. That’s why we offer private blood testing services in our Manchester clinic, including full liver panels.

Here’s what you can expect:

• –> Confidential, one-to-one consultations to assess your needs

• –> Private testing rooms for comfort and discretion

• –> Appointments available quickly — no lengthy referral process

• –> Results typically returned in 3–5 working days

• –> Supportive follow-up advice based on your results

If you’re feeling nervous, you’re welcome to bring a friend or family member along to your appointment. We want you to feel completely at ease throughout the process.

Why Test Before You Start?

Even if you feel perfectly healthy, your liver could be under pressure without any obvious symptoms. By having a liver test before you begin new medication, you:

• –> Establish a baseline for future monitoring

• –> Detect any early warning signs before symptoms develop

• –> Reduce the risk of unwanted side effects

• –> Give your pharmacist or prescriber the information they need to choose the safest option for you

Don’t Wait for Symptoms

Symptoms of liver problems — like fatigue, nausea, dark urine, or yellowing skin — often don’t appear until the liver is already under strain. A liver test offers a proactive way to check in on your internal health and catch issues early.

Book Your Liver Test Today

If you’re starting a new medication, or simply want reassurance that your liver is in good health, Everest Pharmacy is here to help. Available at our Grove and Darwen branches, our private blood testing service is fast, discreet, and tailored to your needs.

Contact us today to book a consultation and get started. With the right information and support, you can begin your treatment with confidence.

This blog was written on behalf of Everest Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.