What is the purpose of testing liver enzymes in a patient before starting HIV PrEP?

Testing liver enzymes in a patient before starting HIV PrEP is primarily aimed at assessing liver function before the initiation of medication. Many medications, including those used in HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), can have hepatic effects, and knowing how well the liver is functioning is crucial for ensuring that the patient can safely metabolize the drug.

It's important to monitor liver function because improper liver function could lead to an increased risk of toxicity or adverse reactions to the medication. A thorough assessment prior to starting PrEP helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about the treatment plan, ensuring that the benefits will outweigh any potential risks associated with the medication's impact on liver health.

Other considerations, such as evaluating for potential drug interactions or checking for active hepatitis infection, are relevant in the context of overall patient care, but the immediate purpose of assessing liver enzymes is specifically to ascertain liver function to safely initiate the medication. Establishing a baseline liver health can also be crucial for future monitoring, but the primary reason at the start is to assess current liver function in relation to starting the medication.