Pharmacokinetics of ceftriaxione, a third-generation cephalosporin, in pediatric patients

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Kyoko Fukumoto1, Shiori Aida, Tomohiro Oishi

  • 1Department Pharmaceutical Sciences, Niigata University of Pharmacy and Applied Life Sciences.

Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin
|July 3, 2009
PubMed

Insights

This study found that once-daily ceftriaxone (CTRX) therapy is effective for pediatric pneumonia. Pediatric pharmacokinetics of CTRX are similar to adults, ensuring therapeutic drug levels.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Clinical Pharmacy

Background:

  • Ceftriaxone (CTRX) is a widely used antibiotic for bacterial infections.
  • Understanding CTRX pharmacokinetics in pediatric patients is crucial for optimizing treatment efficacy.
  • Previous studies have not fully elucidated CTRX pharmacokinetics and protein binding in children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To clarify the pharmacokinetics of ceftriaxone (CTRX) in pediatric patients.
  • To investigate the relationship between CTRX protein binding and serum concentrations in children.
  • To evaluate the suitability of once-daily CTRX dosing for pediatric pneumonia.

Main Methods:

  • Serum concentrations of CTRX were monitored in 21 pediatric pneumonia patients.
  • Blood samples were collected pre- and post-administration for CTRX level determination.
  • In vitro and in vivo studies examined the effect of albumin on CTRX protein binding.

Main Results:

  • No significant correlation was found between age and CTRX elimination half-life in pediatric patients.
  • Pediatric patients showed no significant differences in distribution volume and clearance compared to adults.
  • Increased CTRX and albumin concentrations led to higher binding ratios in both in vitro and in vivo settings.

Conclusions:

  • Once-daily ceftriaxone (CTRX) administration is pharmacokinetically and bacteriologically effective for pediatric pneumonia.
  • Sufficient trough concentrations of CTRX were maintained above the minimum inhibitory concentration for key pathogens.
  • Pediatric CTRX pharmacokinetics are comparable to adult profiles, supporting current dosing regimens.

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