Aminoglycoside administration in paediatrics: a literature search comparing international practices of intravenous injection or intravenous infusion

Abstract

### Key messages Aminoglycosides are a class of broad-spectrum, bactericidal antibiotics of which amikacin, gentamicin and tobramycin are the most commonly prescribed. These antibiotics are frequently prescribed for children, usually for infections, which are caused by aerobic Gram-negative pathogens. 1 Aminoglycosides are very poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, due to their lack of lipophilicity. Therefore, they must be administered parenterally. They are also concentration dependent, which means that the ratio between the peak concentrations (Cmax) to the pathogen’s minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) is the pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic index, which is a marker for antimicrobial activity and effectiveness. To achieve an effective clinical response, a Cmax/MIC ratio between 8 and 12 has been advised, although this is based on adult data.1 Aminoglycosides have a narrow therapeutic margin, so therapeutic drug monitoring must be used to monitor for toxicity. High serum levels may result in ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity.1 Aminoglycosides are administered as once-daily or multiple-daily (previously known as ‘standard dose’) regimes. Once-daily …