Which lab values should be monitored for a patient taking terbinafine daily?

Monitoring liver enzyme levels is crucial for a patient taking terbinafine daily because this antifungal medication can pose a risk of hepatotoxicity. Terbinafine is metabolized in the liver, and elevated liver enzymes such as ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) can indicate liver stress or damage. Therefore, establishing a baseline and conducting monthly monitoring helps ensure that any potential liver issues are identified early, allowing for timely intervention if needed.

In contrast, other lab values mentioned, such as kidney function tests, complete blood count, and serum electrolytes, are not typically associated with the adverse effects or required monitoring parameters for terbinafine. While kidney function should always be assessed in the context of a patient's overall health, it is not specifically necessary to monitor these lab values weekly for patients on terbinafine. Similarly, a complete blood count or serum electrolytes do not have a direct relationship with terbinafine therapy and are not routinely monitored unless other clinical indications arise. Thus, the emphasis on liver enzyme monitoring ensures patient safety and effective management during terbinafine treatment.