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ANTIMICROBIAL DOSING IN OBESE PATIENTS: ADJUSTMENT GUIDE TO HELP IN PRESCRIPTION AND VALIDATION

European Statement

Clinical Pharmacy Services

Author(s)

ANA CASTRO BALADO, MARÍA TERESA RODRÍGUEZ JATO, IRIA VARELA REY, MANUEL BUSTO IGLESIAS, FRANCISCO CAJADE PASCUAL, MARIA PUENTE IGLESIAS, IRENE ZARRA FERRO

Why was it done?

The prevalence of obesity has increased considerably in last decades. Pathophysiological changes in obese patients (body mass index >30kg/m2) produce pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic alterations that can condition the correct exposure to drugs if standard dosages are used. Incorrect dosing in obese patients can lead to toxicity or therapeutic failure. Usually, it is difficult to find information on drug dosing in this population, being sometimes contradictory.

What was done?

To develop an antimicrobial dosage infographic guide for obese patients to facilitate the correct prescription and validation in our hospital.

How was it done?

Initially, the pharmacy service established the antimicrobial groups to be included in the infographic guide, and within each of them, the most used in hospitalized patients were identified. A bibliographic search was carried out using the keywords “obese”, “dosing”, “antimicrobial” and “patient”. Technical data sheets, PubMed, Google Scholar, UpToDate, Micromedex and other hospital guidelines were consulted. A peer review was carried out and a table with antimicrobial groups and subgroups was designed, stablishing the body weight recommended for the adjustment if needed (total weight (TBW), ideal weight (IBW) and adjusted weight (ABW)), doses, and observations (monitoring of plasma levels, administration in extended/continuous infusion and/or special considerations). The table consisted of a total of 38 antibiotics, 10 antifungals, 6 antivirals and 4 antituberculous drugs. Of the total antimicrobials reviewed, 40% were dosed in obese patients by maximum dose, 38% were dosed based on weight (21% by ABW, 10% by IBW, and 7% by TBW) and 22% by standard doses. Equations for body weight descriptors were added in the infographic.

What has been achieved?

The protocol was validated by the hospital’s infectious diseases commission. Dosing information was then entered into the hospital’s electronic prescribing program facilitating the correct antimicrobial prescription and validation in obese patients. Training was provided in the intensive care unit, and the final document was disseminated through the hospital intranet and via email to all prescribing physicians in the center, being well embraced.

What next?

We will continue making formative sessions, as well as possible updates that may be beneficial for a better antimicrobial dosing in obese patients to avoid toxicities and/or therapeutic failure.

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