Oseltamivir dosing for influenza infection in premature neonates

J Infect Dis. 2010 Aug 15;202(4):563-6. doi: 10.1086/654930.

Abstract

Under the Emergency Use Authorization issued in April 2009, oseltamivir can be used to treat 2009 influenza A (H1N1) virus infection in children aged <1 year. No data exist on the dosing of oseltamivir in premature babies. A hospital health care worker inadvertently exposed 32 neonatal intensive care unit babies to 2009 influenza A (H1N1); a protocol was expeditiously implemented to collect samples for pharmacokinetics and dosage evaluation. Results suggest 1.0 mg/kg/dose twice daily in premature babies produces oseltamivir carboxylate exposures similar to that in older children receiving 3.0 mg/kg/dose twice daily. These results provide initial guidance on dosing oseltamivir in this vulnerable population.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antiviral Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Antiviral Agents / pharmacokinetics*
  • Cross Infection / drug therapy
  • Cross Infection / virology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Premature
  • Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype / isolation & purification
  • Influenza, Human / drug therapy*
  • Influenza, Human / virology
  • Male
  • Oseltamivir / administration & dosage*
  • Oseltamivir / pharmacokinetics*

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Oseltamivir