Why is it important to monitor liver enzymes in patients taking statins?

Monitoring liver enzymes in patients taking statins is crucial because statins have the potential to cause liver damage, although this is generally rare. Statins work by inhibiting an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis in the liver, which can lead to an increase in liver enzymes. Elevated levels of liver enzymes, specifically alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), can indicate hepatotoxicity or damage to the liver cells. Regular monitoring allows healthcare providers to identify any adverse effects early, ensuring that appropriate interventions can be made, such as dose adjustments or discontinuation of the medication if necessary. Ensuring liver health is essential for the overall safety of patients on statins, given the risk of statin-induced liver injury.