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Pharmacokinetics of dexamethasone in premature neonates

European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology volume 49, pages 477–483 (1996)Cite this article

Abstract

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.

Conclusion: The pharmacokinetics of dexamethasone in premature neonates was related to gestational age.

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Author notes

  1. R. A. Lugo

    Present address: College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA

Affiliations

  1. The Wexner Institute for Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, 500 West 12th Avenue, 43210, Columbus, Ohio, USA

    R. A. Lugo, M. C. Nahata, J. A. Menke & E. McClead

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  1. R. A. Lugo
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  2. M. C. Nahata
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  3. J. A. Menke
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  4. E. McClead
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Lugo, R.A., Nahata, M.C., Menke, J.A. et al. Pharmacokinetics of dexamethasone in premature neonates. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 49, 477–483 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00195934

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00195934

Key words

  • Dexamethasone
  • Premature neonates
  • pharmacokinetics
  • bronchopulmonary dysplasia
  • infant
  • newborn