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Ceftriaxone pharmacokinetics in newborn infants

G H McCracken, J D Siegel, N Threlkeld

    Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy
    |February 1, 1983
    PubMed

    Insights

    This study evaluated ceftriaxone pharmacokinetics in newborn infants, finding that a once-daily dose is suitable. Ceftriaxone (antibiotic) effectively reduced bacteria in infant gut flora.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric Pharmacology
    • Infectious Disease Research
    • Neonatal Pharmacokinetics

    Background:

    • Ceftriaxone is a widely used antibiotic in neonates.
    • Understanding its pharmacokinetic profile in newborns is crucial for safe and effective dosing.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To determine the pharmacokinetic parameters of ceftriaxone in newborn infants.
    • To assess the impact of ceftriaxone on gut microbiota in this population.
    • To propose an optimal dosing regimen for ceftriaxone in neonates.

    Main Methods:

    • Pharmacokinetic analysis in 40 newborn infants (1-45 days old).
    • Intravenous infusion of 50 mg/kg ceftriaxone over 15 minutes.
    • Measurement of peak plasma concentrations, half-life, and plasma clearance.
    • Analysis of rectal swab cultures to evaluate changes in aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.

    Main Results:

    • Mean peak plasma concentrations ranged from 136 to 173 µg/ml.
    • Mean half-life values were between 5.2 and 8.4 hours.
    • Mean plasma clearance rates were 0.7 to 1.8 ml/min.
    • Significant reduction or absence of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria was observed in 14 of 16 infants' rectal swabs.

    Conclusions:

    • Ceftriaxone exhibits predictable pharmacokinetics in newborn infants.
    • A once-daily dosing schedule appears appropriate for ceftriaxone therapy in neonates.
    • Ceftriaxone demonstrates antimicrobial activity against gut flora in infants.

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