Pharmacokinetics of cimetidine in critically ill children.
The pharmacokinetic behavior of cimetidine has not been described in children, and there is no authoritative guideline on cimetidine dosage for children. Cimetidine pharmacokinetics were studied after a single intravenous dose and during three, incremental rates of continuous infusion in critically ill children. The mean elimination half-life of cimetidine was 1.44 +/- 0.41 hours. Compared to adults, these children had a relatively faster clearance (14.21 +/- 2.85 ml/min/kg) of cimetidine and a larger apparent distribution volume (2.13 +/- 0.63 l/kg). Based on our results, it appears rational to initiate cimetidine at a daily dose of 24 mg/kg in critically ill children.
D000367:Age Factors; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000378:metabolism; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002927:Cimetidine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005745:Gastric Acidity Determination; D006207:Half-Life; D006801:Humans; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D007223:Infant; D007700:Kinetics; D010437:Peptic Ulcer / Q000517:prevention & control; D013312:Stress, Physiological; D013997:Time Factors
D002927:Cimetidine