Main Answer:
Serum phenytoin level of 12 mcg/mL is therapeutic, ensuring effective seizure control while minimizing toxicity risks.The therapeutic serum drug level for phenytoin is.b. 12 mcg/mL.
Therefore, the correct answer is b. 12 mcg/mL.
Explanation:
Phenytoin is an antiepileptic medication used for seizure control. The therapeutic range for a serum drug level is generally considered to be between 10 to 20 mcg/mL. Option b, with a level of 12 mcg/mL, falls within this range, indicating an effective and therapeutic concentration of the drug in the blood. This concentration is associated with optimal seizure control while minimizing the risk of adverse effects.
Maintaining the serum drug level within the therapeutic range is crucial in managing seizures. Levels below the therapeutic range may lead to inadequate seizure control, while levels above the range can result in toxicity, causing adverse effects such as ataxia and nystagmus. Therefore, a level of 12 mcg/mL provides a balance between efficacy and safety.
In clinical practice, healthcare providers monitor phenytoin levels regularly to ensure that they remain within the therapeutic range. Adjustments to the medication dosage may be necessary based on these levels, individual patient response, and any observed side effects. Option b's serum drug level of 12 mcg/mL aligns with the goal of maintaining an effective yet safe concentration of phenytoin in the bloodstream.
Therefore, the correct answer is b. 12 mcg/mL.