Externally validated population pharmacokinetics of amikacin and evaluation of dosage regimen based on achieved serum concentrations in neonates.

Combination antibiotics consisting of beta-lactam and aminoglycoside are commonly utilized in the treatment of neonatal septicaemia. The aims of this study were to (i) develop an externally validated population pharmacokinetic (PK) model, (ii) evaluate the attainment of target peak and trough serum concentrations by the current hospital amikacin dosing protocol and side effects, and (iii) compare intravenous (IV) versus intramuscular (IM) route of amikacin administration, in terms of attaining peak and trough serum concentration targets. Retrospective chart review was carried out over a 5-year period.