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Pharmacokinetics of fluconazole in young infants

M C Nahata1, K B Tallian, R W Force

  • 1Ohio State University and Children's Hospital, Columbus, USA.

European Journal of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics
|October 8, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Oral fluconazole demonstrates good absorption and comparable serum concentrations to intravenous administration in premature infants. This offers a convenient and potentially less complicated alternative for treating fungal infections.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Pharmacology
  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacokinetics

Background:

  • Intravenous fluconazole is a standard treatment for fungal infections in infants.
  • Limited data exists on the pharmacokinetics of oral fluconazole in premature infants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the pharmacokinetics of oral fluconazole in premature infants.
  • To compare oral versus intravenous fluconazole administration.

Main Methods:

  • Oral fluconazole was administered at a dose of 6 mg/kg.
  • Serum concentrations were measured to determine Cmax, AUC, and apparent clearance.

Main Results:

  • Peak serum concentration (Cmax) ranged from 6.0-13.5 µg/ml.
  • Area under the curve (AUC) ranged from 340-636 µg·h/ml.
  • Cmax and AUC were comparable to intravenous fluconazole, indicating good absorption.

Conclusions:

  • Oral fluconazole is well-absorbed and tolerated in premature infants.
  • Oral fluconazole presents a viable alternative to IV therapy, potentially improving convenience and reducing costs.

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