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The pharmacokinetics of cefodizime in children

A Boccazzi1, G Fusi, A M Mezzopane

  • 1First Pediatric Department, Milan University, Italy.

Insights

This study examined the pharmacokinetics of cefodizime in children. Cefodizime demonstrated predictable pharmacokinetic behavior in pediatric patients, similar to other cephalosporins.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Drug Metabolism

Background:

  • Cefodizime is an antibiotic used in treating bacterial infections.
  • Understanding its pharmacokinetic profile in children is crucial for safe and effective dosing.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the single-dose pharmacokinetics of cefodizime in hospitalized children.
  • To compare intravenous (IV) and intramuscular (IM) administration routes.

Main Methods:

  • Ten children (2-15 years) received a single dose of cefodizime (25 mg/kg) via IV or IM route.
  • Blood and urine samples were collected up to 12 hours post-dose.
  • Cefodizime concentrations were measured using microbiological assay; pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using a two-compartment open model.

Main Results:

  • Peak serum concentrations were higher with IV administration (131 mg/l at 15 min) compared to IM (54.8 mg/l at 60 min).
  • Mean elimination half-life (T1/2 beta) was approximately 1.9 hours for both routes.
  • Cumulative urinary excretion was high (78-87% of the dose) within 12 hours after IV administration.

Conclusions:

  • Cefodizime exhibits pharmacokinetic properties in children that are comparable to other cephalosporin antibiotics.
  • The drug is well-tolerated and effectively eliminated via renal excretion in the pediatric population.

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