Pharmacokinetics of dexamethasone in premature neonates.
OBJECTIVE
Dexamethasone is frequently used in premature neonates with bronchopulmonary dysplasia, however little is known about its disposition in this population.


METHODS
We evaluated the pharmacokinetics of dexamethasone in 9 premature neonates with a mean gestational age of 27.3 weeks and a postnatal age of 21.8 days.


RESULTS
There was a strong relationship between clearance (4.96 ml.min-1.kg-1) and gestational age ( r = 0.884). Pharmacokinetic parameters were grouped based on a gestational age of less than 27 weeks (Group I) and greater than 27 weeks (Group II). Mean clearance in group I and group II was 1.69 and 7,57 ml.min-1.kg-1, respectively. Mean distribution volume in group I and II was 1.26 and 2.19 l.kg-1, respectively. No significant relationships were noted between the disposition of dexamethasone and ventilator requirements or adverse effects.


CONCLUSIONS
The pharmacokinetics of dexamethasone in premature neonates was related to gestational age.
Lugo
R A
RA
College of Pharmacy, Ohio State University, Columbus 43210, USA.
Nahata
M C
MC
Menke
J A
JA
McClead
R E
RE
D001794:Blood Pressure / Q000187:drug effects; D001806:Blood Urea Nitrogen; D001997:Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia / Q000188:drug therapy*; D003907:Dexamethasone / Q000493:pharmacokinetics* / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D005865:Gestational Age; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000493:pharmacokinetics* / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D007235:Infant, Premature, Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*; D010366:Peak Expiratory Flow Rate / Q000187:drug effects; D012044:Regression Analysis
D005938:Glucocorticoids; D003907:Dexamethasone