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Moxalactam pharmacokinetics in children
Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy
|July 1, 1982
Summary
Moxalactam serum levels in children showed rapid initial concentrations but 32% had sub-therapeutic 8-hour trough levels. Infants under one year had altered pharmacokinetics requiring dose consideration.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Pediatric Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Moxalactam is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used in pediatric patients.
- Understanding moxalactam pharmacokinetics is crucial for effective treatment and prophylaxis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine serum concentrations, half-life (T 1/2), and distribution volume (VD) of moxalactam in children.
- To compare pharmacokinetic parameters between prophylactic and therapeutic use, and across different age groups.
Main Methods:
- Serum moxalactam concentrations were measured in 28 children (10 prophylaxis, 18 treatment) after a 50 mg/kg IV dose every 8 hours.
- Pharmacokinetic parameters including T 1/2 and VD were calculated.
- Patients were stratified by age (infants <1 year vs. children >1 year).
Main Results:
- Mean peak moxalactam levels were 257 mcg/ml at 5 min, decreasing to 17.5 mcg/ml at 8 hours.
- Mean T 1/2 was 2.44 hours, and mean VD was 0.30 L/kg.
- Infants <1 year exhibited significantly lower 30-min levels, larger VD, and longer T 1/2 compared to older children.
- 32% of patients had 8-hour trough levels below the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) breakpoint of 17 mg/ml.
Conclusions:
- A 50 mg/kg dose of moxalactam achieves high initial serum concentrations but may not maintain therapeutic levels for 8 hours in a significant portion of pediatric patients.
- Age influences moxalactam pharmacokinetics, with younger infants requiring careful dosing considerations.
- Further studies may be needed to optimize dosing regimens to ensure consistent therapeutic trough levels.