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Elevated phenytoin concentration caused by sampling through the drug-administration catheter
1Department of Pharmacy Practice, Mercer University Southern School of Pharmacy, Atlanta, Georgia 30341.
Pharmacotherapy
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Elevated phenytoin levels can be toxic. This case highlights how blood draw contamination from an IV catheter can falsely elevate phenytoin concentrations, leading to incorrect clinical decisions and potential patient harm.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Pharmacology
- Pharmacokinetics
- Laboratory Medicine
Background:
- Elevated phenytoin concentrations can lead to toxicity.
- Accurate monitoring is crucial for safe and effective therapeutic action, including dose adjustments.
- Falsely elevated levels may lead to withholding necessary medication, increasing seizure risk.