What is one of the rare but serious complications of INH therapy?

The identified answer highlights drug-induced liver injury as one of the rare but serious complications of isoniazid (INH) therapy. Isoniazid is an antibiotic primarily used to treat tuberculosis, but it has well-documented hepatotoxic effects.

Liver injury can manifest in various ways, ranging from mild elevation of liver enzymes to severe liver damage that may lead to liver failure. Patients undergoing INH therapy should be monitored for signs of liver dysfunction, especially if they have pre-existing liver disease, consume alcohol regularly, or are taking other medications that can also affect liver function.

Understanding the potential for drug-induced liver injury is crucial for healthcare professionals as it underscores the importance of patient monitoring and education regarding the signs and symptoms of liver problems. This can include jaundice, abdominal pain, and dark urine, which should prompt immediate evaluation and possible discontinuation of the medication.

Other options such as allergic reactions and severe skin rashes, while they can occur, are not as frequently associated with INH therapy as liver injury, making them less significant in the context of serious complications. Respiratory distress is also not a primary concern or a recognized complication of INH therapy compared to the hepatotoxic effects.