What is essential to monitor when a patient is on antiepileptic drugs?

Monitoring serum drug levels and liver function tests is essential when a patient is on antiepileptic drugs. Antiepileptic medications often have narrow therapeutic ranges, meaning that small changes in blood levels can lead to either therapeutic failure or toxicity. By regularly measuring serum drug levels, healthcare providers can ensure that the patient is receiving a dose that is both effective and safe.

Additionally, many antiepileptic drugs can have hepatotoxic effects, which makes liver function tests critical in assessing the patient's safety during treatment. These tests allow for early detection of potential liver damage, enabling timely intervention to prevent serious complications.

Monitoring serum drug levels and liver function is, therefore, a key aspect of managing patients on antiepileptic medications, ensuring both efficacy in controlling seizures and minimizing the risk of adverse effects.