[Adaptation of amikacin dosages for the premature infant]

Pharmacokinetic studies of amikacin were investigated concomitant with the kidney and auditory function and with the minimal inhibitory concentrations on the causal bacteria in 23 premature neonates with confirmed or suspected infections. It appears that the usual doses administered to newborns or preterm neonates must be decreased and calculated in function to the gestational ages and life's days. Every preterm neonates received a first infusion of 7.5 mg/kg. When premature have less than 14 days of life, amikacin was given at a dose of 3.75 mg/kg every 12 hr for a gestational age less than 32 weeks, or 5 mg/kg every 12 hr for a gestational age between 32 and 37 weeks. After 14 days of life, considering our results it must be necessary to administer 5 or 7.5 mg/kg every 12 hr.