Clin Pharmacokinet
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Population pharmacokinetics of tranexamic acid in paediatric patients undergoing craniosynostosis surgery.
Tranexamic acid (TXA) effectively reduces blood loss and transfusion requirements during craniofacial surgery. The pharmacokinetics of TXA have not been fully characterized in paediatric patients and dosing regimens remain diverse in practice. A mixed-effects population analysis would characterize patient variability and guide dosing practices. ⋯ A two-compartment model with covariates bodyweight and age adequately characterized the disposition of TXA. A loading dose of 10 mg/kg over 15 min followed by a 5 mg/kg/h maintenance infusion was simulated to produce steady-state TXA plasma concentrations above the 16 μg/mL threshold. This dosing scheme reduces the initial high peaks observed with the larger dose of 50 mg/kg over 15 min used in our previous clinical study.
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The direct factor Xa (FXa) inhibitors rivaroxaban, apixaban and edoxaban, and the thrombin inhibitor dabigatran etexilate (dabigatran) have gained approval for use in several indications, most notably for the prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and for the prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. Hepatic impairment can affect the disposition of these anticoagulants considerably not only because of the hepatic metabolism of the direct FXa inhibitors but also because moderate to severely impaired hepatic function will affect coagulation. This review describes the key pharmacological properties of novel oral anticoagulants with special attention to patients with impaired hepatic function. ⋯ Dabigatran is contraindicated in patients with hepatic impairment or liver disease expected to have any impact on survival. Currently, edoxaban is not available in the US or European markets. However, the Japanese label did not restrict use in hepatic dysfunction but advises care in patients with severe hepatic impairment.