Which medication interaction is a concern for patients taking INH?

Which medication interaction is a concern for patients taking INH?

• A. INH reduces the effects of warfarin
• B. INH interacts with phenytoin
• C. INH enhances the effects of aspirin
• D. INH has no known drug interactions

Answer: (B)

Isoniazid (INH) is an antibiotic commonly used to treat tuberculosis, and its interaction with phenytoin (Dilantin), an anticonvulsant medication, is a notable concern. INH can inhibit the enzyme responsible for metabolizing phenytoin in the liver, leading to increased levels of phenytoin in the bloodstream. This can heighten the risk of toxicity and side effects associated with phenytoin, such as dizziness and unsteady movements. It's essential for healthcare providers to monitor patients who are prescribed both INH and phenytoin closely, adjusting dosages as necessary to prevent adverse effects from the elevated phenytoin levels. This interaction underscores the importance of medication reconciliation and awareness of potential drug interactions for patient safety and effective treatment outcomes.

Isoniazid (INH) is an antibiotic commonly used to treat tuberculosis, and its interaction with phenytoin (Dilantin), an anticonvulsant medication, is a notable concern. INH can inhibit the enzyme responsible for metabolizing phenytoin in the liver, leading to increased levels of phenytoin in the bloodstream. This can heighten the risk of toxicity and side effects associated with phenytoin, such as dizziness and unsteady movements.

It's essential for healthcare providers to monitor patients who are prescribed both INH and phenytoin closely, adjusting dosages as necessary to prevent adverse effects from the elevated phenytoin levels. This interaction underscores the importance of medication reconciliation and awareness of potential drug interactions for patient safety and effective treatment outcomes.