Researchers develop a novel glycopeptide antibiotic similar to vancomycin that is bactericidal against many gram-positive bacteria. From animal studies, they determine that the effective drug dosage is 5 mg/kg/day administered intravenously in divided doses. In a clinical trial, the antibiotic is administered to adult and neonatal patients with gram-positive infections. The drug is found to be effective in adults but not in neonates. During further analysis, plasma concentrations of the drug are measured in both groups, with the results shown in the image below: Compared to adults, which of the following neonatal factors is the most likely cause of the difference in drug effectiveness?

Question

Researchers develop a novel glycopeptide antibiotic similar to vancomycin that is bactericidal against many gram-positive bacteria.  From animal studies, they determine that the effective drug dosage is 5 mg/kg/day administered intravenously in divided doses.  In a clinical trial, the antibiotic is administered to adult and neonatal patients with gram-positive infections.  The drug is found to be effective in adults but not in neonates.  During further analysis, plasma concentrations of the drug are measured in both groups, with the results shown in the image below:  Compared to adults, which of the following neonatal factors is the most likely cause of the difference in drug effectiveness?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Compared to adults, newborns have a larger percentage of body water. If water-soluble medications are given at the same weight-based dosage as those given to adult patients, this can lead to lower plasma concentrations of such medications.

Researchers Develop a Novel Glycopeptide Antibiotic Similar to Vancomycin That