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Identifying 24 h variation in the pharmacokinetics of levofloxacin: a population pharmacokinetic approach

Kervezee L, Stevens J, Birkhoff W, Kamerling IM, de Boer T, Dröge M, Meijer JH, Burggraaf J

British journal of clinical pharmacology, 2016

12 participants · 16 citations

Abstract

AIM: The objective of this study was to investigate whether the pharmacokinetics of orally administered levofloxacin show 24 h variation. Levofloxacin was used as a model compound for solubility and permeability independent absorption and passive renal elimination.

METHODS: In this single centre, crossover, open label study, 12 healthy subjects received an oral dose of 1000 mg levofloxacin at six different time points equally divided over the 24 h period. Population pharmacokinetic modelling was used to identify potential 24 h variation in the pharmacokinetic parameters of this drug.

RESULTS: The pharmacokinetics of levofloxacin could be described by a one compartment model with first order clearance and a transit compartment to describe drug absorption. The fit of the model was significantly improved when the absorption rate constant was described as a cosine function with a fixed period of 24 h, a relative amplitude of 47% and a peak around 08.00 h in the morning. Despite this variation in absorption rate constant, simulations of a once daily dosing regimen showed that tmax , Cmax and the area under the curve at steady-state were not affected by the time of drug administration.

CONCLUSION: The finding that the absorption rate constant showed considerable 24 h variation may be relevant for drugs with similar physicochemical properties as levofloxacin that have a narrower therapeutic index. Levofloxacin, however, can be dosed without taking into account the time of day, at…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 12 participants or records.

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