Use of Intravenous Posaconazole in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Patients

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Pediatric Medicine
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Posaconazole is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent.
• Intravenous (IV) formulation is used for invasive fungal infections.
• Limited data exists on pediatric dosing for IV posaconazole.

Observation:

• Four pediatric patients (3-9 years) received IV posaconazole.
• Treatment was for documented or suspected invasive fungal infections.
• Dosing ranged from 8.4 to 12.2 mg/kg daily.

Findings:

• Pediatric patients achieved therapeutic serum concentrations of posaconazole.
• Doses required were higher per body weight compared to adult recommendations.
• Minimal adverse effects were observed during treatment.

Implications:

• Higher IV posaconazole doses may be necessary for pediatric patients.
• This study provides initial data for pediatric dosing guidelines.
• Further research is warranted to establish optimal pediatric dosing strategies.