Pharmacokinetics and application to pediatric practice

Abstract

Infants, children, and teens present unique challenges in the appropriate, effective, and safe use of medications and are exposed to strikingly large numbers of medications, regardless of age. It is important to base drug selection on a foundational knowledge of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Additionally, the progress of pharmacogenomics and the promise of personalized medicine can best be understood and utilized for pediatric patients when built upon pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics principles, especially when incorporated with knowledge of the influence of organ maturation upon drug handling. This chapter highlights important principles of pharmacokinetics, with applications and examples to enable pediatric practitioners to enhance drug use across the continuum of pediatric ages.