What does 'therapeutic drug monitoring' refer to?

Therapeutic drug monitoring specifically involves the measurement of specific drug concentrations in a patient's bloodstream at designated intervals. The primary goal of this practice is to maintain drug levels within a therapeutic range that is both effective and safe. This is particularly important for medications that have narrow therapeutic indices, meaning that the difference between an effective dose and a toxic dose is small. Through regular monitoring, healthcare providers can make informed decisions about dosage adjustments and ensure that the patient is receiving the optimal amount of medication for their condition.

This approach is vital in managing chronic conditions where consistent medication levels are crucial for treatment success, helping to minimize adverse effects while maximizing therapeutic outcomes.