What should the nurse inform a client prescribed phenytoin regarding alcohol?

The correct answer is that alcohol increases the chance of phenytoin toxicity. Phenytoin is an anticonvulsant medication used primarily for seizure control, and its therapeutic range is narrow. Alcohol can interfere with the metabolism of phenytoin, leading to increased serum levels of the medication. This elevated concentration can result in symptoms of toxicity, which may include dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and even more severe effects such as ataxia or nystagmus.

Understanding the interactions between alcohol and medications like phenytoin is critical for patient safety. Alcohol consumption can also lead to variability in blood levels of phenytoin due to its effects on liver enzymes that are responsible for metabolizing the drug. Therefore, it is advisable for patients on phenytoin to avoid alcohol to maintain consistent therapeutic levels and minimize the risk of adverse effects.