What is an important monitoring requirement for Zyflo CR (zileuton)?

Zyflo CR (zileuton) is a leukotriene synthesis inhibitor primarily used in the management of asthma. One crucial aspect of monitoring while a patient is on Zyflo CR is the liver function tests (LFTs).

Zileuton has been associated with liver enzyme elevations, which can indicate potential liver damage. Therefore, routine monitoring of liver function is essential to identify any hepatotoxicity early in treatment and to ensure the safety of the patient. Healthcare providers typically recommend performing LFTs before starting the medication and regularly during treatment, especially during the first few months.

In contrast, while monitoring heart rate, blood pressure, or respiratory rate can be important in managing asthma in general, they are not specific monitoring requirements directly associated with the safety profile of Zyflo CR. Therefore, while they may have their place in a comprehensive asthma management plan, they are not the key focus when it comes to the specific monitoring requirements for zileuton treatment. This specificity makes monitoring liver function tests the most pertinent and critical requirement when prescribing Zyflo CR.