Which ongoing laboratory testing should be performed for a client taking fenofibrate?

Clients taking fenofibrate should undergo ongoing liver panel testing. Fenofibrate is a fibrate medication used to lower lipid levels, particularly triglycerides. One of the significant concerns with any lipid-lowering agent, especially fibrates, is their potential impact on liver function. Fenofibrate can lead to liver enzyme elevation, which is indicative of hepatotoxicity. Therefore, monitoring liver enzymes such as ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) through a liver panel is essential to identify any early signs of liver damage and to ensure that they remain within a safe range.

Other tests, such as INR and aPTT, are primarily used for monitoring anticoagulation therapy and are not relevant for patients taking fenofibrate. A complete blood count (CBC) is used to monitor for various blood pathologies but does not specifically address the risks associated with fenofibrate. Similarly, a reticulocyte count is used to evaluate bone marrow function and but does not provide information pertinent to fenofibrate therapy. Thus, the most appropriate ongoing laboratory test for a client taking fenofibrate is the liver panel.