What should be done if a drug leads to narrow therapeutic range and toxicity increases?

In situations where a drug has a narrow therapeutic range and the risk of toxicity increases, close monitoring for signs of overdose is essential. A narrow therapeutic range means that there is a very small difference between the minimum effective concentration and the minimum toxic concentration of the drug. This necessitates careful observation to ensure that drug levels remain within a safe and effective range.

Monitoring for overdose signs involves looking for clinical symptoms that could indicate toxicity, which can help in identifying any problems early on. This proactive approach allows for timely interventions, such as adjusting the dose or frequency of administration, before any severe adverse events occur.

Targeting higher peak levels or increasing the dosing interval may unnecessarily heighten the risk of toxicity, while changing to a lower potency drug could lead to subtherapeutic dosing if not done thoughtfully. The focus on careful monitoring aligns with the principles of patient safety and efficacy in pharmacotherapy, ensuring that the medication remains beneficial while minimizing harmful effects.