Peds Flashcards
What percentage of drugs are not FDA approved for children (and even fewer for infants)?
60%
What percentage of drugs lack dosing, efficacy, and safety data for children?
75%
How much can we round up dosese to avoid decimals?
limit round up to 10% of dose
What are some issues with IM administration of drugs in children?
not well tolerated
variable muscle mass in infants & young children
variable blood flow to muscle, SQ tissue
What are elixirs?
drug dissolved & evenly distributed in alcohol
caution with evaporation
What are some suspending agents for crushed tablets?
apple sauce
pudding
chocolate syrup
What age can we start giving capsules/tablets?
~ age 6
What age can we use a nebulizer?
age 3
What age can we start using MDIs?
age 5
What percentage of dosing errors occur in children?
~ 70%
What is the best source for drug dosing in children but frequently not available?
manufacturer’s package insert information
What is the GI system like in neonates?
high gastric pH
irregular peristalsis
low levels pancreatic enzymes
bile acids can alter absorption
Why is topical absorption higher in neonates/infants?
thin stratum corneum
increase cutaneous perfusion
higher surface to weight ratio
Do neonates have less P450 activity?
yes; 50-70% adult levels
What is metabolism & renal elimination like in toddlers?
more rapid metabolism & renal elimination than adults
At what age can we start using the Cockroft-Gault Formula?
age 18