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Updated: Jul 19, 2026
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Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
Published on: August 30, 2018
[Pharmacovigilance in a paediatric intensive care unit]
M N Rousseau1, M Travaglianti, E M Vega
1Area Farmacia, Hospital Nacional de Pediatría Juan P. Garrahan, Buenos Aires, República Argentina.
Summary
Pharmacists identified suspected drug adverse events in a pediatric intensive care unit, with most confirmed and requiring treatment adjustments. These findings highlight the importance of pharmacist involvement in patient safety and pharmacovigilance.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacovigilance
- Pediatric Intensive Care
- Drug Safety
Context:
- Pharmacists identified suspected drug-related adverse events during hospital rounds and clinic visits.
- The study period was April 2004 to May 2005.
- A pharmacovigilance subcommittee prospectively analyzed reported events.
Purpose:
- To analyze suspected drug-related adverse events reported by pharmacists in a pediatric intensive care unit.
- To confirm and classify suspected adverse events.
Summary:
- Nineteen suspected adverse events were reported for 17 patients, with 15 (78%) confirmed.
- Antimicrobials, anti-epileptics, and immunosuppressants were the most frequently implicated drug classes.
- Event severity ranged from mild to fatal, with 20% considered avoidable.
Impact:
- Pharmacist reporting of adverse events, though limited by accessibility, led to confirmed events and treatment adjustments.
- The study underscores the role of pharmacists in identifying and managing drug-related harm in critically ill children.
- Findings emphasize the need for systematic pharmacovigilance in pediatric intensive care settings.
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