Abstract
Netilmicin, an aminoglycoside with spectrum similar to gentamicin, is less toxic than gentamicin in animals, and is safe and efficacious in adults. We studied netilmicin in 40 infants and children with suspected or proved bacterial infection. Most patients also received a penicillin. In newborns, one hour after the first IM dose a peak level of 2.9±.4 mcg/ml was achieved; T-1/2 averaged 3.85 h. The peak levels attained after the first dose were suboptimal. However, levels on the 2nd d of therapy were 4.5±.6 mcg/ml and on day 7-10, the peak level was 4.6±1.0 mcg/ml. In infants > 7 d. of age, T-1/2 averaged 3.0 h. Serum concentration curves on day 7-10 were higher than those observed after the first dose but significant drug accumulation did not occur between the 2nd and 10th d. Peak values did not vary with age. The time to reach the trough level was 11 h in infants < 1 wk, but 7 h in patients > 1 wk. Anuric patients had prolonged elevation of serum concentrations. Measurable netilmicin levels were found in CSF, ascites fluid, kidney, muscle, and spleen. EEG or pure tone audiometry was normal in all 26 patients tested. No renal abnormalities were attributable to netilmicin use. Eosinophilia occurred in 17 patients. Documented bacterial infections were successfully treated with netilmicin alone (4) or in combination with other antibiotics (9). In light of the predictability of serum levels, efficacy, and minimal toxicity, a controlled comparative study of netilmicin with other aminoglycosides should be undertaken.
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Schauf, V., Chindasilpa, V., Hamilton, L. et al. 267 NETILMICIN PHARMACOLOGY IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS. Pediatr Res 12 (Suppl 4), 408 (1978). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197804001-00272
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197804001-00272