Objective: Dexamethasone is frequently used in premature neonates with bronchopulmonary dysplasia, however little is known about its disposition in this population.
Methods: We evaluated the pharmacokinetics of dexamethasone in 9 premature neonates with a mean gestational age of 27.3 weeks and a postnatal age of 21.8 days.
Results: There was a strong relationship between clearance (4.96 ml.min-1.kg-1) and gestational age ( r = 0.884). Pharmacokinetic parameters were grouped based on a gestational age of less than 27 weeks (Group I) and greater than 27 weeks (Group II). Mean clearance in group I and group II was 1.69 and 7,57 ml.min-1.kg-1, respectively. Mean distribution volume in group I and II was 1.26 and 2.19 l.kg-1, respectively. No significant relationships were noted between the disposition of dexamethasone and ventilator requirements or adverse effects.
Conclusion: The pharmacokinetics of dexamethasone in premature neonates was related to gestational age.