Optimum dosage regimen of palivizumab?
Palivizumab is a humanized, monoclonal antibody used to protect at-risk infants against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. The regular dosage scheme causes a low initial trough level and accumulation of the antibody after subsequent injections. Using a simple pharmacokinetic model, the authors devised an alternative dosage regimen that might correct these problems while cutting costs by 35%. To spare health care budgets, dosage schemes for future monoclonal antibodies must be chosen carefully.
Zaaijer
Hans L
HL
Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, VUMC University Hospital, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands. hans.zaaijer@vumc.nl
Vandenbroucke-Grauls
C M J E
CM
Franssen
E J F
EJ
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000097:blood / Q000191:economics; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000097:blood / Q000191:economics; D006801:Humans; D007115:Immunization Schedule; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D009426:Netherlands; D000069455:Palivizumab; D018357:Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections / Q000188:drug therapy*
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000998:Antiviral Agents; D000069455:Palivizumab