Related Experiment Videos
Single dose pharmacokinetics of trimethoprim
Insights
Pediatric pharmacokinetics of trimethoprim showed rapid absorption and distribution in children. Faster clearance and shorter half-life in children suggest increased metabolism compared to adults, with sustained therapeutic urine concentrations.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Pediatric Medicine
- Drug Metabolism
Background:
- Trimethoprim is an antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections.
- Understanding trimethoprim pharmacokinetics in children is crucial for appropriate dosing and efficacy.
- Limited data exists on trimethoprim's pharmacokinetic profile in diverse pediatric age groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the pharmacokinetic parameters of a single oral dose of trimethoprim in children.
- To compare trimethoprim's absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion in children versus adults.
- To assess the achievement and duration of therapeutic urine concentrations in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- A single oral dose pharmacokinetic study was conducted.
- Eighteen children aged 3 months to 13 years were enrolled.
- Trimethoprim concentrations in plasma and urine were measured over time.
Main Results:
- Trimethoprim was rapidly absorbed and widely distributed in pediatric subjects.
- Mean clearance was significantly faster, and elimination half-life was shorter in children compared to adults.
- Urinary recovery of trimethoprim was lower in children, suggesting greater metabolism; however, concentrations exceeded MICs for pathogens for at least 16 hours.
Conclusions:
- Children exhibit distinct trimethoprim pharmacokinetics compared to adults, characterized by faster elimination.
- The observed metabolic profile in children necessitates careful consideration for optimal therapeutic outcomes.
- Achieved and sustained high urinary trimethoprim concentrations indicate potential for effective treatment of pediatric urinary tract infections.
Abstract:
Single oral dose trimethoprim pharmacokinetics were determined in 18 children aged 3 months to 13 years. Trimethoprim suspension was rapidly absorbed and quickly and widely distributed. The mean clearance was considerably faster and the elimination half life considerably shorter than values reported in adults. Only one third of the administered drug dose was recovered from the urine within 24 hours which is considerably less than in adults, suggesting that children may metabolise a greater proportion of the dose given. Urine trimethoprim concentrations greatly in excess of minimum inhibitory concentrations for common pathogens were rapidly achieved and sustained for at least 16 hours.