What is recommended for monitoring patients on INH?

What is recommended for monitoring patients on INH?

• A. Routine cholesterol tests
• B. Liver function tests
• C. Blood glucose monitoring
• D. Kidney function tests

Answer: (B)

For patients on isoniazid (INH), routine monitoring of liver function tests is recommended due to the potential for hepatotoxicity, which is a known risk associated with this medication. INH can cause elevated liver enzymes, indicating liver injury, and in some cases, it can lead to severe liver damage or hepatitis. Regular liver function tests help to identify any adverse effects early, allowing for timely intervention to prevent serious complications. While other types of monitoring, such as blood glucose levels or kidney function tests, may be relevant in specific contexts, they are not standard protocols specifically related to the use of INH. Cholesterol testing is also not necessary for monitoring patients on this medication. Therefore, the emphasis on liver function tests is critical in ensuring patient safety while undergoing treatment with isoniazid.

For patients on isoniazid (INH), routine monitoring of liver function tests is recommended due to the potential for hepatotoxicity, which is a known risk associated with this medication. INH can cause elevated liver enzymes, indicating liver injury, and in some cases, it can lead to severe liver damage or hepatitis. Regular liver function tests help to identify any adverse effects early, allowing for timely intervention to prevent serious complications.

While other types of monitoring, such as blood glucose levels or kidney function tests, may be relevant in specific contexts, they are not standard protocols specifically related to the use of INH. Cholesterol testing is also not necessary for monitoring patients on this medication. Therefore, the emphasis on liver function tests is critical in ensuring patient safety while undergoing treatment with isoniazid.