Ofloxacin pharmacokinetics in mechanically ventilated patients
Martin, C.; Lambert, D.; Bruguerolle, B.; Saux, P.; Freney, J.; Fleurette, J.; Meugnier, H.; Gouin, F.
Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy 35(8): 1582-1585
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0066-4804 PMID: 1929329 Document Number: 377949
The pharmacokinetics of ofloxacin were studied in 12 intensive care patients, 6 of whom were under controlled mechanical ventilation. All patients had a creatinine clearance of > 80 ml/min per 1.73 m2. They were given 3 mg of ofloxacin per kg of body weight intravenously at a constant flow rate in 30 min twice a day for 7 days. Pharmacokinetic studies were performed on days 1 and 7. Between days 1 and 7, significant increases in the alpha (distribution) and beta (elimination) phase half-lives, the area under the serum concentration-time curve, and peak and trough levels in serum were observed, together with a marked decrease (> 50%) in total body clearance. Possible contributing factors for alteration of oflaxacin pharmacokinetics in ventilated patients were patient age, liver dysfunction, drug interaction, and drug accumulation in a deep compartment. This study shows that in intensive care patients the pharmacokinetics of ofloxacin differ from those reported for healthy volunteers.