1
|
Thépaut E, Bisson M, Brochot C, Personne S, Appenzeller BMR, Zaros C, Chardon K, Zeman F. PBPK modeling to support risk assessment of pyrethroid exposure in French pregnant women. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 251:118606. [PMID: 38460660 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pyrethroids are widely used pesticides and are suspected to affect children's neurodevelopment. The characterization of pyrethroid exposure during critical windows of development, such as fetal development and prenatal life, is essential to ensure a better understanding of pyrethroids potential effects within the concept of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to estimate maternal exposure of French pregnant women from biomonitoring data and simulate maternal and fetal internal concentrations of 3 pyrethroids (permethrin, cypermethrin and deltamethrin) using a multi-substance pregnancy-PBPK (physiologically based pharmacokinetics) model. The estimated maternal exposures were compared to newly proposed toxicological reference values (TRV) children specific also called draft child-specific reference value to assess pyrethroid exposure risk during pregnancy i.e. during the in utero exposure period. METHODS A pregnancy-PBPK model was developed based on an existing adult pyrethroids model. The maternal exposure to each parent compound of pregnant women of the Elfe (French Longitudinal Study since Childhood) cohort was estimated by reverse dosimetry based on urinary biomonitoring data. To identify permethrin and cypermethrin contribution to their common urinary biomarkers of exposure, an exposure ratio based on biomarkers in hair was tested. Finally, exposure estimates were compared to current and draft child-specific reference values derived from rodent prenatal and postnatal exposure studies. RESULTS The main contributor to maternal pyrethroid diet intake is cis-permethrin. In blood, total internal concentrations main contributor is deltamethrin. In brain, the major contributors to internal pyrethroid exposure are deltamethrin for fetuses and cis-permethrin for mothers. Risk is identified only for permethrin when referring to the draft child-specific reference value. 2.5% of the population exceeded permethrin draft child-specific reference value. CONCLUSIONS A new reverse dosimetry approach using PBPK model combined with human biomonitoring data in urine and hair was proposed to estimate Elfe pregnant population exposure to a pyrethroids mixture with common metabolites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Thépaut
- Unité Toxicologie ExpérimentAle et Modélisation / Péritox (UMR_I 01), INERIS/UPJV, Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques, 60550, Verneuil-en-Halatte, France
| | - Michèle Bisson
- Unité Expertise en Toxicologie / écotoxicologie des Substances Chimiques, INERIS, Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques, 60550, Verneuil-en-Halatte, France
| | - Céline Brochot
- Unité Toxicologie ExpérimentAle et Modélisation / Péritox (UMR_I 01), INERIS/UPJV, Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques, 60550, Verneuil-en-Halatte, France; Current affiliation: Certara UK Ltd, Simcyp Division, Sheffield, UK
| | - Stéphane Personne
- Péritox (UMR_I 01), UPJV/INERIS, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, 80025, Amiens, France
| | - Brice M R Appenzeller
- Human Biomonitoring Research Unit, Department of Precision Health, Luxembourg Institute of Health, 1 A-B rue Thomas Edison, L-1445, Strassen, Luxembourg
| | - Cécile Zaros
- UMS Elfe, INED French Institute for Demographic Studies, 93322, Aubervilliers CEDEX, France
| | - Karen Chardon
- Péritox (UMR_I 01), UPJV/INERIS, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, 80025, Amiens, France
| | - Florence Zeman
- Unité Toxicologie ExpérimentAle et Modélisation / Péritox (UMR_I 01), INERIS/UPJV, Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques, 60550, Verneuil-en-Halatte, France.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Atoyebi S, Bunglawala F, Cottura N, Grañana-Castillo S, Montanha MC, Olagunju A, Siccardi M, Waitt C. Physiologically-based pharmacokinetic modelling of long-acting injectable cabotegravir and rilpivirine in pregnancy. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38340019 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.16006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Long-acting cabotegravir and rilpivirine have been approved to manage HIV in adults, but data regarding safe use in pregnancy are limited. Physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modelling was used to simulate the approved dosing regimens in pregnancy and explore if Ctrough was maintained above cabotegravir and rilpivirine target concentrations (664 and 50 ng/mL, respectively). METHODS An adult PBPK model was validated using clinical data of cabotegravir and rilpivirine in nonpregnant adults. This was modified by incorporating pregnancy-induced metabolic and physiological changes. The pregnancy PBPK model was validated with data on oral rilpivirine and raltegravir (UGT1A1 probe substrate) in pregnancy. Twelve weeks' disposition of monthly and bimonthly dosing of long-acting cabotegravir and rilpivirine was simulated at different trimesters and foetal exposure was also estimated. RESULTS Predicted Ctrough at week 12 for monthly long-acting cabotegravir was above 664 ng/mL throughout pregnancy, but below the target in 0.5% of the pregnant population in the third trimester with bimonthly long-acting cabotegravir. Predicted Ctrough at week 12 for monthly and bimonthly long-acting rilpivirine was below 50 ng/mL in at least 40% and over 90% of the pregnant population, respectively, throughout pregnancy. Predicted medians (range) of cord-to-maternal blood ratios were 1.71 (range, 1.55-1.79) for cabotegravir and 0.88 (0.78-0.93) for rilpivirine between weeks 38 and 40. CONCLUSIONS Model predictions suggest that monthly long-acting cabotegravir could maintain antiviral efficacy throughout pregnancy, but that bimonthly administration may require careful clinical evaluation. Both monthly and bimonthly long-acting rilpivirine may not adequately maintain antiviral efficacy in pregnancy.
Collapse
|
3
|
Le Merdy M, Szeto KX, Perrier J, Bolger MB, Lukacova V. PBPK Modeling Approach to Predict the Behavior of Drugs Cleared by Metabolism in Pregnant Subjects and Fetuses. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:96. [PMID: 38258106 PMCID: PMC10820132 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to develop a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model that simulates metabolically cleared compounds' pharmacokinetics (PK) in pregnant subjects and fetuses. This model accounts for the differences in tissue sizes, blood flow rates, enzyme expression levels, plasma protein binding, and other physiological factors affecting the drugs' PK in both the pregnant woman and the fetus. The PBPKPlus™ module in GastroPlus® was used to model the PK of metoprolol, midazolam, and metronidazole for both non-pregnant and pregnant groups. For each of the three compounds, the model was first developed and validated against PK data in healthy non-pregnant volunteers and then applied to predict the PK in the pregnant groups. The model accurately described the PK in both the non-pregnant and pregnant groups and explained well the differences in the plasma concentration due to pregnancy. When available, the fetal plasma concentration, placenta, and fetal tissue concentrations were also predicted reasonably well at different stages of pregnancy. The work described the use of a PBPK approach for drug development and demonstrates the ability to predict differences in PK in pregnant subjects and fetal exposure for metabolically cleared compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Le Merdy
- Simulations Plus, Inc., 42505 10th Street West, Lancaster, CA 93534, USA
| | - Ke Xu Szeto
- Simulations Plus, Inc., 42505 10th Street West, Lancaster, CA 93534, USA
| | - Jeremy Perrier
- PhinC Development, 36 Rue Victor Basch, 91300 Massy, France
| | - Michael B Bolger
- Simulations Plus, Inc., 42505 10th Street West, Lancaster, CA 93534, USA
| | - Viera Lukacova
- Simulations Plus, Inc., 42505 10th Street West, Lancaster, CA 93534, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gaohua L, Zhang M, Sychterz C, Chang M, Schmidt BJ. The Interplay of Permeability, Metabolism, Transporters, and Dosing in Determining the Dynamics of the Tissue/Plasma Partition Coefficient and Volume of Distribution-A Theoretical Investigation Using Permeability-Limited, Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16224. [PMID: 38003416 PMCID: PMC10671645 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
A permeability-limited physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model featuring four subcompartments (corresponding to the intracellular and extracellular water of the tissue, the residual plasma, and blood cells) for each tissue has been developed in MATLAB/SimBiology and applied to various what-if scenario simulations. This model allowed us to explore the complex interplay of passive permeability, metabolism in tissue or residual blood, active uptake or efflux transporters, and different dosing routes (intravenous (IV) or oral (PO)) in determining the dynamics of the tissue/plasma partition coefficient (Kp) and volume of distribution (Vd) within a realistic pseudo-steady state. Based on the modeling exercise, the permeability, metabolism, and transporters demonstrated significant effects on the dynamics of the Kp and Vd for IV bolus administration and PO fast absorption, but these effects were not as pronounced for IV infusion or PO slow absorption. Especially for low-permeability compounds, uptake transporters were found to increase both the Kp and Vd at the pseudo-steady state (Vdss), while efflux transporters had the opposite effect of decreasing the Kp and Vdss. For IV bolus administration and PO fast absorption, increasing tissue metabolism was predicted to elevate the Kp and Vdss, which contrasted with the traditional derivation from the steady-state perfusion-limited PBPK model. Moreover, metabolism in the residual blood had more impact on the Kp and Vdss compared to metabolism in tissue. Due to its ability to offer a more realistic description of tissue dynamics, the permeability-limited PBPK model is expected to gain broader acceptance in describing clinical PK and observed Kp and Vdss, even for certain small molecules like cyclosporine, which are currently treated as perfusion-limited in commercial PBPK platforms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Gaohua
- Clinical Pharmacology & Pharmacometrics, Bristol Myers Squibb, Lawrenceville, NJ 08540, USA; (M.Z.); (C.S.); (M.C.); (B.J.S.)
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Dallmann A, van den Anker J, Ahmadzia HK, Rakhmanina N. Mechanistic Modeling of the Drug-Drug Interaction Between Efavirenz and Dolutegravir: Is This Interaction Clinically Relevant When Switching From Efavirenz to Dolutegravir During Pregnancy? J Clin Pharmacol 2023; 63 Suppl 1:S81-S95. [PMID: 37317489 DOI: 10.1002/jcph.2225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Following the 2021 World Health Organization's updated recommendations on the management of HIV infection, millions of people living with HIV are currently switched from efavirenz-based antiretroviral therapy to dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy. Pregnant individuals transitioning from efavirenz to dolutegravir might be at increased risk of insufficient viral suppression in the immediate postswitch period because both efavirenz- and pregnancy-related increases in hormone levels induce enzymes involved in dolutegravir metabolism, namely, cytochrome P450 3A4 and uridine 5'-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase 1A1. This study aimed at developing physiologically based pharmacokinetic models to simulate the switch from efavirenz to dolutegravir in the late second and third trimester. To this end, the drug-drug interaction between efavirenz and the uridine 5'-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 substrates dolutegravir and raltegravir was first simulated in nonpregnant subjects. After successful validation, the physiologically based pharmacokinetic models were translated to pregnancy and dolutegravir pharmacokinetics following efavirenz discontinuation were predicted. Modeling results indicated that, at the end of the second trimester, both efavirenz concentrations and dolutegravir trough concentrations fell below respective pharmacokinetic target thresholds (defined as reported thresholds producing 90%-95% of the maximum effect) during the time interval from 9.75 to 11 days after dolutegravir initiation. At the end of the third trimester, this time interval spanned from 10.3 days to >4 weeks after dolutegravir initiation. These findings suggest that dolutegravir exposure in the immediate post-efavirenz switch period during pregnancy may be suboptimal, leading to HIV viremia and, potentially, resistance. The clinical implications of these findings remain to be substantiated by future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- André Dallmann
- Pharmacometrics/Modeling & Simulation, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, Bayer AG, Germany
| | - John van den Anker
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Paediatric Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, University Children's Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Homa K Ahmadzia
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Natella Rakhmanina
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- The George Washington University, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Olagunju A, Mathad J, Eke A, Delaney-Moretlwe S, Lockman S. Considerations for the Use of Long-Acting and Extended-Release Agents During Pregnancy and Lactation. Clin Infect Dis 2022; 75:S571-S578. [PMID: 36410383 PMCID: PMC10200321 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-acting agents hold significant promise for treating and preventing common illnesses, including infections. Pharmacokinetic and safety data during pregnancy and lactation are often unavailable for new drugs; these data are vital to facilitate optimal drug use by pregnant and lactating women and women who may conceive. In this commentary, we summarize the circumstances in which pregnant and lactating women are likely to use and benefit from long-acting agents. We focus on long-acting formulations of small molecules (rather than biologics such as monoclonal antibodies) and on several infections of global importance (human immunodeficiency virus, tuberculosis, malaria, and hepatitis C). We discuss pregnancy pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic and potential safety and efficacy considerations pertaining to the use of long-acting agents in pregnancy and lactation. Finally, we summarize existing preclinical and pregnancy pharmacokinetic data that are available (or expected in the near future) for several agents that are under development or approved, and how key research gaps may be addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adeniyi Olagunju
- Centre of Excellence for Long-acting Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Jyoti Mathad
- Department of Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Global Health, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ahizechukwu Eke
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sinead Delaney-Moretlwe
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Shahin Lockman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Peng J, Ladumor MK, Unadkat JD. Estimation of fetal-to-maternal unbound steady-state plasma concentration ratio (Kp,uu,fetal ) of P-gp and/or BCRP substrate drugs using a maternal-fetal PBPK model. Drug Metab Dispos 2022; 50:613-623. [PMID: 35149540 PMCID: PMC9073947 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.121.000733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnant women are frequently prescribed drugs to treat chronic diseases (e.g., HIV infection), but little is known about the benefits and risks of these drugs to the fetus which are driven by fetal drug exposure. The latter can be estimated by fetal-to-maternal unbound plasma concentration at steady-state (Kp,uu,fetal). For drugs that are substrates of placental efflux transporters (i.e., P-gp or BCRP), is expected to be <1. Here, we estimated the in vivo of selective P-gp and/or BCRP substrate drugs by maternal-fetal (m-f)-PBPK modeling of umbilical vein (UV) plasma and maternal plasma (MP) concentrations obtained simultaneously at term from multiple maternal-fetal dyads. To do so, three drugs were selected: nelfinavir (P-gp substrate), efavirenz (BCRP substrate), and imatinib (P-gp/BCRP substrate). A m-f-PBPK model for each drug was developed and validated for the non-pregnant population and pregnant women using the Simcyp simulator (v20). Then, after incorporating placental passive diffusion clearance, the in vivo of the drug was estimated by adjusting the placental efflux clearance until the predicted UV/MP values best matched the observed data ( nelfinavir=0.41, efavirenz=0.39, imatinib=0.35). Furthermore, of nelfinavir and efavirenz at gestational week (GW) 25 and 15 were predicted to be 0.34, 0.23 and 0.33, 0.27 respectively. These values can be used to adjust dosing regimens of these drugs to optimize maternal-fetal drug therapy throughout pregnancy, to assess fetal benefits and risks of these dosing regimens, and to determine if these estimated in vivo values can be predicted from in vitro studies. Significance Statement The in vivo Kp,uu,fetal of nelfinavir (P-gp substrate), efavirenz (BCRP substrate), and imatinib (P-gp and BCRP substrate) was successfully estimated using m-f- PBPK modeling. These Kp,uu,fetal values can be used to adjust dosing regimens of these drugs to optimize maternal-fetal drug therapy throughout pregnancy, to assess fetal benefits and risks of these dosing regimens, and to determine if these estimated in vivo Kp,uu,fetal values can be predicted from in vitro studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinfu Peng
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, China
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
van Hoogdalem MW, Wexelblatt SL, Akinbi HT, Vinks AA, Mizuno T. A review of pregnancy-induced changes in opioid pharmacokinetics, placental transfer, and fetal exposure: Towards fetomaternal physiologically-based pharmacokinetic modeling to improve the treatment of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 234:108045. [PMID: 34813863 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.108045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling has emerged as a useful tool to study pharmacokinetics (PK) in special populations, such as pregnant women, fetuses, and newborns, where practical hurdles severely limit the study of drug behavior. PK in pregnant women is variable and everchanging, differing greatly from that in their nonpregnant female and male counterparts typically enrolled in clinical trials. PBPK models can accommodate pregnancy-induced physiological and metabolic changes, thereby providing mechanistic insights into maternal drug disposition and fetal exposure. Fueled by the soaring opioid epidemic in the United States, opioid use during pregnancy continues to rise, leading to an increased incidence of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS). The severity of NOWS is influenced by a complex interplay of extrinsic and intrinsic factors, and varies substantially between newborns, but the extent of prenatal opioid exposure is likely the primary driver. Fetomaternal PBPK modeling is an attractive approach to predict in utero opioid exposure. To facilitate the development of fetomaternal PBPK models of opioids, this review provides a detailed overview of pregnancy-induced changes affecting the PK of commonly used opioids during gestation. Moreover, the placental transfer of these opioids is described, along with their disposition in the fetus. Lastly, the implementation of these factors into PBPK models is discussed. Fetomaternal PBPK modeling of opioids is expected to provide improved insights in fetal opioid exposure, which allows for prediction of postnatal NOWS severity, thereby opening the way for precision postnatal treatment of these vulnerable infants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthijs W van Hoogdalem
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Scott L Wexelblatt
- Perinatal Institute, Division of Neonatology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Center for Addiction Research, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Henry T Akinbi
- Perinatal Institute, Division of Neonatology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Alexander A Vinks
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Center for Addiction Research, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Tomoyuki Mizuno
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Center for Addiction Research, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mian P, Nolan B, van den Anker JN, van Calsteren K, Allegaert K, Lakhi N, Dallmann A. Mechanistic Coupling of a Novel in silico Cotyledon Perfusion Model and a Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Model to Predict Fetal Acetaminophen Pharmacokinetics at Delivery. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:733520. [PMID: 34631628 PMCID: PMC8496351 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.733520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Little is known about placental drug transfer and fetal pharmacokinetics despite increasing drug use in pregnant women. While physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models can help in some cases to shed light on this knowledge gap, adequate parameterization of placental drug transfer remains challenging. A novel in silico model with seven compartments representing the ex vivo cotyledon perfusion assay was developed and used to describe placental transfer and fetal pharmacokinetics of acetaminophen. Unknown parameters were optimized using observed data. Thereafter, values of relevant model parameters were copied to a maternal-fetal PBPK model and acetaminophen pharmacokinetics were predicted at delivery after oral administration of 1,000 mg. Predictions in the umbilical vein were evaluated with data from two clinical studies. Simulations from the in silico cotyledon perfusion model indicated that acetaminophen accumulates in the trophoblasts; simulated steady state concentrations in the trophoblasts were 4.31-fold higher than those in the perfusate. The whole-body PBPK model predicted umbilical vein concentrations with a mean prediction error of 24.7%. Of the 62 concentration values reported in the clinical studies, 50 values (81%) were predicted within a 2-fold error range. In conclusion, this study presents a novel in silico cotyledon perfusion model that is structurally congruent with the placenta implemented in our maternal-fetal PBPK model. This allows transferring parameters from the former model into our PBPK model for mechanistically exploring whole-body pharmacokinetics and concentration-effect relationships in the placental tissue. Further studies should investigate acetaminophen accumulation and metabolism in the placenta as the former might potentially affect placental prostaglandin synthesis and subsequent fetal exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Mian
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Bridget Nolan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, NY, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - John N. van den Anker
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, United States
- Department of Pediatric Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, University Children's Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kristel van Calsteren
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, UZ Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karel Allegaert
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Erasmus Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Nisha Lakhi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, NY, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - André Dallmann
- Pharmacometrics/Modeling and Simulation, Research and Development, Pharmaceuticals, Bayer AG, Leverkusen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Eke AC, Olagunju A, Momper J, Penazzato M, Abrams EJ, Best BM, Capparelli EV, Bekker A, Belew Y, Kiser JJ, Struble K, Taylor G, Waitt C, Mirochnick M, Cressey TR, Colbers A. Optimizing Pharmacology Studies in Pregnant and Lactating Women Using Lessons From HIV: A Consensus Statement. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2021; 110:36-48. [PMID: 32930408 PMCID: PMC8167886 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.2048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Information on the extent of drug exposure to mothers and infants during pregnancy and lactation normally becomes available years after regulatory approval of a drug. Clinicians face knowledge gaps on drug selection and dosing in pregnancy and infant exposure during breastfeeding. Physiological changes during pregnancy often result in lower drug exposures of antiretrovirals, and in some cases a risk of reduced virologic efficacy. The International Maternal Pediatric Adolescent AIDS Clinical Trials (IMPAACT) network and the World Health Organization (WHO)-convened Pediatric Antiretrovirals Working Group collaboratively organized a workshop of key stakeholders in June 2019 to define key standards to generate pharmacology data for antiretrovirals to be used among pregnant and lactating women; review the antiretroviral product pipeline; describe key gaps for use in low-income and middle-income countries; and identify opportunities to undertake optimal studies allowing for rapid implementation in the clinical field. We discussed ethical and regulatory principles, systemic approaches to obtaining data for pregnancy pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) studies, control groups, optimal sampling times during pregnancy, and pharmacokinetic parameters to be considered as primary end points in pregnancy PK/PD studies. For lactation studies, the type of milk to collect, ascertainment of maternal adherence, and optimal PK methods to estimate exposure were discussed. Participants strongly recommended completion of preclinical reproductive toxicology studies prior to phase III, to allow study protocols to include pregnant women or to allow women who become pregnant after enrolment to continue in the trial. The meeting concluded by developing an algorithm for design and interpretation of results and noted that recruitment of pregnant and lactating women into clinical trials is critical.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahizechukwu C. Eke
- Division of Maternal Fetal MedicineDepartment of Gynecology & ObstetricsJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Adeniyi Olagunju
- Faculty of PharmacyObafemi Awolowo UniversityIle‐IfeNigeria
- Department of Molecular & Clinical PharmacologyUniversity of LiverpoolLiverpoolUK
| | - Jeremiah Momper
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Martina Penazzato
- HIV, Hepatitis and STI DepartmentWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Elaine J. Abrams
- Mailman School of Public HealthICAP at Columbia UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Department of PediatricsVagelos College of Physicians & SurgeonsColumbia UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Brookie M. Best
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
- Pediatrics DepartmentUniversity of California San Diego School of Medicine‐Rady Children’s Hospital San DiegoSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA
- University of LiverpoolLiverpoolUK
| | - Edmund V. Capparelli
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
- Pediatrics DepartmentUniversity of California San Diego School of Medicine‐Rady Children’s Hospital San DiegoSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA
- University of LiverpoolLiverpoolUK
| | - Adrie Bekker
- Department of Paediatrics and Child HealthStellenbosch UniversityCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Yodit Belew
- Division of Antiviral Products, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)Silver SpringMarylandUSA
| | - Jennifer J. Kiser
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Kimberly Struble
- Division of Antiviral Products, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)Silver SpringMarylandUSA
| | - Graham Taylor
- Department of Infectious DiseaseFaculty of MedicineImperial CollegeLondonUK
| | - Catriona Waitt
- Department of HIV PharmacologyUniversity of LiverpoolLiverpoolUK
| | | | - Tim R. Cressey
- Department of Molecular & Clinical PharmacologyUniversity of LiverpoolLiverpoolUK
- PHPT/IRD UMI 174Faculty of Associated Medical SciencesChiang Mai UniversityChiang MaiThailand
- Department of Immunology & Infectious DiseasesHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public HealthBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Angela Colbers
- Department of PharmacyRadboud Institute for Health SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ren Z, Bremer AA, Pawlyk AC. Drug development research in pregnant and lactating women. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2021; 225:33-42. [PMID: 33887238 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2021.04.227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Pregnant and lactating women are considered "therapeutic orphans" because they generally have been excluded from clinical drug research and the drug development process owing to legal, ethical, and safety concerns. Most medications prescribed for pregnant and lactating women are used "off-label" because most of the clinical approved medications do not have appropriate drug labeling information for pregnant and lactating women. Medications that lack human safety data on use during pregnancy and lactation may pose potential risks for adverse effects in pregnant and lactating women as well as risks of teratogenic effects to their unborn and newborn babies. Federal policy requiring the inclusion of women in clinical research and trials led to considerable changes in research design and practice. Despite more women being included in clinical research and trials, the inclusion of pregnant and lactating women in drug research and clinical trials remains limited. A recent revision to the "Common Rule" that removed pregnant women from the classification as a "vulnerable" population may change the culture of drug research and drug development in pregnant and lactating women. This review article provides an overview of medications studied by the Obstetric-Fetal Pharmacology Research Units Network and Centers and describes the challenges in current obstetrical pharmacology research and alternative strategies for future research in precision therapeutics in pregnant and lactating women. Implementation of the recommendations of the Task Force on Research Specific to Pregnant Women and Lactating Women can provide legislative requirements and opportunities for research focused on pregnant and lactating women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoxia Ren
- Obstetric and Pediatric Pharmacology and Therapeutics Branch, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD.
| | - Andrew A Bremer
- Pediatric Growth and Nutrition Branch, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD; Pregnancy and Perinatology Branch, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
| | - Aaron C Pawlyk
- Obstetric and Pediatric Pharmacology and Therapeutics Branch, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chaphekar N, Dodeja P, Shaik IH, Caritis S, Venkataramanan R. Maternal-Fetal Pharmacology of Drugs: A Review of Current Status of the Application of Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Models. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:733823. [PMID: 34805038 PMCID: PMC8596611 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.733823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy and the postpartum period are associated with several physiological changes that can alter the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of drugs. For certain drugs, dosing changes may be required during pregnancy and postpartum to achieve drug exposures comparable to what is observed in non-pregnant subjects. There is very limited data on fetal exposure of drugs during pregnancy, and neonatal exposure through transfer of drugs via human milk during breastfeeding. Very few systematic clinical pharmacology studies have been conducted in pregnant and postpartum women due to ethical issues, concern for the fetus safety as well as potential legal ramifications. Over the past several years, there has been an increase in the application of modeling and simulation approaches such as population PK (PopPK) and physiologically based PK (PBPK) modeling to provide guidance on drug dosing in those special patient populations. Population PK models rely on measured PK data, whereas physiologically based PK models incorporate physiological, preclinical, and clinical data into the model to predict drug exposure during pregnancy. These modeling strategies offer a promising approach to identify the drugs with PK changes during pregnancy to guide dose optimization in pregnancy, when there is lack of clinical data. PBPK modeling is also utilized to predict the fetal exposure of drugs and drug transfer via human milk following maternal exposure. This review focuses on the current status of the application of PBPK modeling to predict maternal and fetal exposure of drugs and thereby guide drug therapy during pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nupur Chaphekar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Prerna Dodeja
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Imam H Shaik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Steve Caritis
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Women's Hospital of UPMC, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Raman Venkataramanan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Women's Hospital of UPMC, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Shenkoya B, Atoyebi S, Eniayewu I, Akinloye A, Olagunju A. Mechanistic Modeling of Maternal Lymphoid and Fetal Plasma Antiretroviral Exposure During the Third Trimester. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:734122. [PMID: 34616699 PMCID: PMC8488224 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.734122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy-induced changes in plasma pharmacokinetics of many antiretrovirals (ARV) are well-established. Current knowledge about the extent of ARV exposure in lymphoid tissues of pregnant women and within the fetal compartment is limited due to their inaccessibility. Subtherapeutic ARV concentrations in HIV reservoirs like lymphoid tissues during pregnancy may constitute a barrier to adequate virological suppression and increase the risk of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT). The present study describes the pharmacokinetics of three ARVs (efavirenz, dolutegravir, and rilpivirine) in lymphoid tissues and fetal plasma during pregnancy using materno-fetal physiologically-based pharmacokinetic models (m-f-PBPK). Lymphatic and fetal compartments were integrated into our previously validated adult PBPK model. Physiological and drug disposition processes were described using ordinary differential equations. For each drug, virtual pregnant women (n = 50 per simulation) received the standard dose during the third trimester. Essential pharmacokinetic parameters, including Cmax, Cmin, and AUC (0-24), were computed from the concentration-time data at steady state for lymph and fetal plasma. Models were qualified by comparison of predictions with published clinical data, the acceptance threshold being an absolute average fold-error (AAFE) within 2.0. AAFE for all model predictions was within 1.08-1.99 for all three drugs. Maternal lymph concentration 24 h after dose exceeded the reported minimum effective concentration (MEC) for efavirenz (11,514 vs. 800 ng/ml) and rilpivirine (118.8 vs. 50 ng/ml), but was substantially lower for dolutegravir (16.96 vs. 300 ng/ml). In addition, predicted maternal lymph-to-plasma AUC ratios vary considerably (6.431-efavirenz, 0.016-dolutegravir, 1.717-rilpivirine). Furthermore, fetal plasma-to-maternal plasma AUC ratios were 0.59 for efavirenz, 0.78 for dolutegravir, and 0.57 for rilpivirine. Compared with rilpivirine (0 h), longer dose forgiveness was observed for dolutegravir in fetal plasma (42 h), and for efavirenz in maternal lymph (12 h). The predicted low lymphoid tissue penetration of dolutegravir appears to be significantly offset by its extended dose forgiveness and adequate fetal compartment exposure. Hence, it is unlikely to be a predictor of maternal virological failure or MTCT risks. Predictions from our m-f-PBPK models align with recommendations of no dose adjustment despite moderate changes in exposure during pregnancy for these drugs. This is an important new application of PBPK modeling to evaluate the adequacy of drug exposure in otherwise inaccessible compartments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Babajide Shenkoya
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - Shakir Atoyebi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Ibrahim Eniayewu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.,Department of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Abdulafeez Akinloye
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - Adeniyi Olagunju
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Eke AC, Olagunju A, Best BM, Mirochnick M, Momper JD, Abrams E, Penazzato M, Cressey TR, Colbers A. Innovative Approaches for Pharmacology Studies in Pregnant and Lactating Women: A Viewpoint and Lessons from HIV. Clin Pharmacokinet 2020; 59:1185-1194. [PMID: 32757103 PMCID: PMC7550310 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-020-00915-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Medication use during pregnancy in the absence of pharmacokinetic and safety data is common, particularly for antiretrovirals, as pregnant women are not usually included in clinical trials leading to drug licensure. To date, data are typically generated through opportunistic pregnancy studies performed in the postmarketing setting, leading to a substantial time-lag between initial regulatory approval of a drug and availability of essential pregnancy-specific pharmacokinetic and safety data. During this period, health care providers lack key information on human placental transfer, fetal exposure, optimal maternal dosing in pregnancy, and maternal and fetal drug toxicity, including teratogenicity risk. We discuss new approaches that could facilitate the acquisition of these critical data earlier in the drug development process, aiding clinicians and patients in making informed decisions on drug selection and dosing during pregnancy. An integrated approach utilizing multiple novel methodologies (in vitro, ex vivo, in silico and in vivo) is needed to accelerate the availability of pharmacology data in pregnancy and lactation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahizechukwu C Eke
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600N Wolfe Street, Phipps 215, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Adeniyi Olagunju
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Brookie M Best
- University of California San Diego, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Pediatrics Department, University of California San Diego School of Medicine-Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Jeremiah D Momper
- University of California San Diego, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Elaine Abrams
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Martina Penazzato
- HIV, Hepatitis and STI Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Tim R Cressey
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- PHPT/IRD 174, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Angela Colbers
- Department of Pharmacy, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abduljalil K, Badhan RKS. Drug dosing during pregnancy-opportunities for physiologically based pharmacokinetic models. J Pharmacokinet Pharmacodyn 2020; 47:319-340. [PMID: 32592111 DOI: 10.1007/s10928-020-09698-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Drugs can have harmful effects on the embryo or the fetus at any point during pregnancy. Not all the damaging effects of intrauterine exposure to drugs are obvious at birth, some may only manifest later in life. Thus, drugs should be prescribed in pregnancy only if the expected benefit to the mother is thought to be greater than the risk to the fetus. Dosing of drugs during pregnancy is often empirically determined and based upon evidence from studies of non-pregnant subjects, which may lead to suboptimal dosing, particularly during the third trimester. This review collates examples of drugs with known recommendations for dose adjustment during pregnancy, in addition to providing an example of the potential use of PBPK models in dose adjustment recommendation during pregnancy within the context of drug-drug interactions. For many drugs, such as antidepressants and antiretroviral drugs, dose adjustment has been recommended based on pharmacokinetic studies demonstrating a reduction in drug concentrations. However, there is relatively limited (and sometimes inconsistent) information regarding the clinical impact of these pharmacokinetic changes during pregnancy and the effect of subsequent dose adjustments. Examples of using pregnancy PBPK models to predict feto-maternal drug exposures and their applications to facilitate and guide dose assessment throughout gestation are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khaled Abduljalil
- Certara UK Limited, Simcyp Division, Level 2-Acero, 1 Concourse Way, Sheffield, S1 2BJ, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Neary M, Owen A, Olagunju A. Pharmacokinetics of HIV therapies in pregnant patients: an update. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2020; 16:449-461. [PMID: 32271621 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2020.1754792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV is thought to account for over 90% of new pediatric infections, and is associated with poor maternal and fetal outcomes. As such ensuring further reduction in MTCT is a priority in HIV treatment and prevention programs. AREAS COVERED This review aims to provide a comprehensive update on the pharmacokinetics of recently approved antiretroviral drugs and novel drug formulations and delivery systems. Alongside recent recommendations for dose adjustments, and an overview of the implications of co-infections on the pharmacokinetics of antiretrovirals relevant to pregnant HIV positive patients. Additionally, potential opportunities to progress pharmacokinetic research of new treatments in this population are highlighted. EXPERT OPINION In order to improve our understanding of how to provide safe and effective treatment to HIV positive pregnant women, further work is required to enable their inclusion in early stages of clinical trials. Incentives must be created for this research, in the form of additional investment by key stakeholders and regulatory agencies. Furthermore, as the incidence of MTCT is reduced globally there is a need to conduct long-term pharmacovigilance studies in uninfected children exposed to HIV and antiretrovirals in utero, in order to determine the safest and most effective antiretroviral therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan Neary
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool , Liverpool, UK
| | - Andrew Owen
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool , Liverpool, UK
| | - Adeniyi Olagunju
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool , Liverpool, UK.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Obafemi Awolowo University , Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|