ABSTRACT
This investigation aimed to compare the efficacy and toxicity of two amikacin dosing regimens in seriously ill paediatric surgical patients. Children (0.6-12 years old) received amikacin intravenously either once daily (15 mg/kg, n = 27) or twice daily (7.5 mg/kg, n = 27). Concomitant medication was given as prescribed. Mean (SD) peak serum amikacin levels were significantly different (p < 0.05) between the once and twice daily groups (37.7 (6.9) mg/l and 19.5 (3.7) mg/l, respectively). Cumulative dose and duration of therapy were also significantly higher in the once-daily group. Regimen efficacy (favourable, unfavourable or indeterminate outcome) was assessed by patient temperatures, clinical improvement and white cell counts. Serum creatinine measurements and post-therapy, pure tone air conduction audiometry assessed nephro- and ototoxicity, respectively. No statistically significant differences were found between the groups in terms of outcome (18/24 and 22/25 patients in the once- and twice-daily groups had favourable outcomes; there were no unfavourable outcomes), nephrotoxicity (none of the patients assessed developed nephrotoxicity) or ototoxicity (2/20 and 5/20 patients, respectively, had mild high frequency hearing deficits which were predominantly unilateral and reversible). Although the regimens were similar in this study, other investigations will further clarify the optimal dosing approach in paediatric patients.
