Variability and predictability of the plasma concentration of ampicillin and kanamycin in new-born infants

Area of Science:

• Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in neonates
• Antimicrobial drug monitoring in infant infections

Background:

• Neonatal infections require careful antibiotic management.
• Understanding drug variability is crucial for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the variability and predictability of ampicillin and kanamycin plasma concentrations.
• To recommend a dosage regimen for kanamycin in newborns.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of plasma concentrations of ampicillin and kanamycin.
• Evaluation of drug variability and predictability in neonates.

Main Results:

• Plasma concentrations of ampicillin and kanamycin show significant variability in newborns.
• A standard dose regimen of 7.5 mg/kg every 12 hours for kanamycin is proposed.

Conclusions:

• The findings highlight the need for therapeutic drug monitoring in neonatal antibiotic therapy.
• The recommended kanamycin dosage aims to optimize treatment efficacy and minimize toxicity.