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Pharmacokinetics of theophylline in infancy

F E Simons, K J Simons

    Journal of Clinical Pharmacology
    |October 1, 1978
    PubMed

    Insights

    Theophylline clearance in infants showed age correlation, with a mean half-life of 4.4 hours. Wide variability necessitates individualized dosing to prevent undertreatment and toxicity.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric Pharmacology
    • Pharmacokinetics in Infants

    Background:

    • Theophylline is a common medication for respiratory conditions in infants.
    • Understanding theophylline pharmacokinetics is crucial for safe and effective dosing.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To determine theophylline clearance rates and half-life in infants.
    • To assess the relationship between these parameters and patient age.

    Main Methods:

    • Intravenous aminophylline infusion for at least 24 hours in 15 infants (3-23 months).
    • Measurement of theophylline clearance and half-life.
    • Correlation analysis with patient age.

    Main Results:

    • Mean theophylline clearance was 1.07 +/- 0.55 ml/min-kg, comparable to older children.
    • Mean half-life was 4.4 +/- 2.2 hours.
    • Observed a tenfold variability in half-life, with some age-related correlation in clearance rates.

    Conclusions:

    • Theophylline clearance in infants is comparable to older children but shows age-related variability.
    • Significant inter-individual variability in half-life highlights the need for personalized theophylline dosing in infants.
    • Individualized dosing is essential to avoid both undertreatment and theophylline toxicity.

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