RLO: Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Influences of Aminoglycoside Dosing

Distribution 1

Within the human body, the aminoglycosides' low serum protein binding and high water solubility mean they distribute widely through intra and extravascular fluid, with an apparent volume of distribution in most patients of 0.25 Litres/kilogram.

Their low lipid solubility, however, means they distribute poorly into most human cells and adipose tissues. Therefore, clinically obese patients should be dosed according to an adjusted rather than actual body weight, to prevent overdosing.

Aminoglycosides also penetrate poorly into enclosed areas, such as the vitreous and aqueous humors of the eye, and the central nervous system. If aminoglycosides are required for infections in these areas, they must be given by local injection.

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