Optimizing intravenous drug administration by applying pharmacokinetic/ pharmacodynamic concepts

Abstract

This review discusses the ways in which anaesthetists can optimize anaestheticanalgesic drug administration by utilizing pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic information. We therefore focus on the doseresponse relationship and the interactions between i.v. hypnotics and opioids. For i.v. hypnotics and opioids, models that accurately predict the time course of drug disposition and effect can be applied. Various commercial or experimental drug effect measures have been developed and can be implemented to further fine-tune individual patient-drug titration. The development of advisory and closed-loop feedback systems, which combine and integrate all sources of pharmacological and effect monitoring, has taken the existing kinetic-based administration technology forwards closer to total coverage of the doseresponse relationship. © 2011 The Author.