Pharmacokinetics of Penicillin G in Preterm and Term Neonates

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Abstract
Group B streptococci are common causative agents of early-onset neonatal sepsis (EOS). Pharmacokinetic (PK) data for penicillin G have been described for extremely preterm neonates but have been poorly described for late-preterm and term neonates. Thus, evidence-based dosing recommendations are lacking. We describe the PK of penicillin G in neonates with a gestational age (GA) of ≥32 weeks and a postnatal age of 90% for MICs of ≤2 mg/liter with doses of 25,000 IU/kg q12h. In neonates, regardless of GA, the PK parameters of penicillin G were similar. The dose of 25,000 IU/kg q12h is suggested for treatment of group B streptococcal EOS diagnosed within the first 72 h of life. (This study was registered with the EU Clinical Trials Register under EudraCT number 2012-002836-97.)
Funding Information
  • Archimedes Foundation (3.2.1001.11-0032)
  • United Kingdom Medical Research Council (G1002305)
  • United Kingdom Medical Research Council (M008665)
  • European Union Seventh Framework Programme (242146)
  • European Union Seventh Framework Programme (261060)
  • Global Research in Paediatrics Network of Excellence (Clinical Research Fellow)
  • National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre at Great Ormond Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust
  • Action Medical Research (SP4650 GN1834)
  • University College London (IMPACT PhD Studentship)
  • University College London
  • Estonian Research Council (IUT34-24)

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