When advising a patient about the use of isoniazid, which precaution is important?

Isoniazid is an antibiotic primarily used to treat tuberculosis and is known to potentially cause liver toxicity. Therefore, monitoring liver enzymes regularly is crucial for patients taking isoniazid. This precaution is important because it helps to detect any signs of liver damage early, which can occur even in patients who have initially tolerated the medication well. Regular monitoring allows healthcare providers to adjust treatment if necessary to prevent serious complications.

The monitoring of liver enzymes is particularly significant for patients who may have other risk factors for liver disease or those on other medications that could increase the risk of hepatotoxicity. Being proactive with monitoring supports patient safety and ensures effective management of tuberculosis without compromising liver health.