Challenges in pediatric oral dosing

Abstract

Many barriers exist to determine and deliver the correct medication dose to a child. Obtaining an accurate weight, which serves as the foundation for appropriate dosing in the pediatric population, remains the critical first step. However, restricted resources in developing countries can limit the accuracy and consistency with which providers can obtain this essential information. In these settings, providers often rely upon weight estimation methods. Understanding the strengths and limitations of various estimation strategies should help health care providers identify which tool is most closely suited to the needs of their population. Additional challenges in pediatric drug delivery surround measuring and administering the correct dose. While several dosing devices are currently available to facilitate pediatric dosing, newer more innovative strategies are needed to improve drug delivery in children.