Pharmacokinetic variability due to environmental differences

ABSTRACT

This tutorial describes sources of pharmacokinetic variability that are not obviously linked to genetic differences. The sources of variability are therefore described as environmental. The major quantitative sources of environmental variability are body size (including body composition), maturation and organ function. Size should be considered in all patients. Maturation is mainly relevant to neonates and infants less than 2 years of age. Renal function is the most important predictable source of variability due to differences in organ function.