DefinePK

Abstract

ABSTRACT


In a prospective study we compared two different dosage regimens of IV chioramphenicol succinate (100 mg/kg/day and 75 mg/kg/day) in children with culture proven typhoid. Trough and peak blood samples, obtained at 48 hrs, were analysed for free chioramphenicol by high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Although the mean trough (8.8±1.7 versus 5.4±2.6 mcg/ml) and peak (19.9±12.2 versus 15.4±6.1 mcg/ml) chloramphenicol concentra­tions were comparable in both groups, a ‘significantly wider range was found in the group receiving 100 mg/kg/day. Potentially toxic levels (>30 mcg/ml) developed in two patients with liver dysfunction. Chloramphenicol in a dosage of 75 mg/kg/day Is adequate and safe for the treatment of paediatric typhoid