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Published on: November 8, 2015
Simple and sensitive method for quantification of low tobramycin concentrations in human plasma using HPLC-MS/MS
Milly E Attema-de Jonge1, Judith M Bekkers, Heleen M Oudemans-van Straaten
1Department of Pharmacy, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Oosterpark 9, 1091 AC Amsterdam, The Netherlands. m.e.attema-dejonge@olvg.nl
Summary
This study developed a fast and sensitive method to measure tobramycin in plasma. This helps monitor drug levels in critically ill patients receiving selective digestive tract decontamination.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacokinetics
- Analytical Chemistry
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Oral tobramycin is used for selective digestive tract decontamination (SDD) in critically ill patients.
- Absorption of tobramycin from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream is possible during SDD.
- Accurate quantification of low tobramycin concentrations in human plasma is crucial for patient safety and treatment efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a simple, rapid, and sensitive analytical method for quantifying tobramycin in human plasma.
- To enable precise measurement of low tobramycin concentrations relevant to SDD therapy.
Main Methods:
- Sample preparation involved protein precipitation with acetonitrile.
- A reversed-phase column (Pathfinder MR) was used for chromatographic separation.
- Mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (MS/MS) detection was employed for sensitive quantification.
Main Results:
- The method demonstrated simplicity and speed, with a runtime of 3 minutes.
- The assay proved sensitive, with a validated concentration range of 0.05-1.0 mg/L.
- The method is suitable for quantifying low tobramycin levels in human plasma.
Conclusions:
- A validated, simple, rapid, and sensitive method for tobramycin plasma quantification has been established.
- This method facilitates therapeutic drug monitoring for patients undergoing SDD.
- The assay supports the safe and effective use of oral tobramycin in critical care settings.
