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Maglalang PD, Sinha J, Zimmerman K, McCann S, Edginton A, Hornik CP, Hornik CD, Muller WJ, Al-Uzri A, Meyer M, Chen JY, Anand R, Perrin EM, Gonzalez D. Application of Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling to Characterize the Effects of Age and Obesity on the Disposition of Levetiracetam in the Pediatric Population. Clin Pharmacokinet 2024; 63:885-899. [PMID: 38814425 PMCID: PMC11225543 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-024-01367-2] [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] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levetiracetam is an antiseizure medication used for several seizure types in adults and children aged 1 month and older; however, due to a lack of data, pharmacokinetic (PK) variability of levetiracetam is not adequately characterized in certain populations, particularly neonates, children younger than 2 years of age, and children older than 2 years of age with obesity. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to address the gap by leveraging PK data from two prospective standard-of-care pediatric trials (n = 88) covering an age range from 1 month to 19 years, including those with obesity (64%), and applying a physiologically based PK (PBPK) modeling framework. METHODS A published PBPK model of levetiracetam for children aged 2 years and older was extended to pediatric patients younger than 2 years of age and patients older than 2 years of age with obesity by accounting for the obesity and age-related changes in PK using PK-Sim® software. The prospective pediatric data, along with the literature data for neonates and children younger than 2 years of age, were used to evaluate the extended PBPK models. RESULTS Overall, 82.4% of data fell within the 90% interval of model-predicted concentrations, with an average fold error within twofold of the accepted criteria. PBPK modeling revealed that children with obesity had lower weight-normalized clearances (0.053 L/h/kg) on average than children without obesity (0.063 L/h/kg). The effect of maturation was well-characterized, resulting in comparable PBPK-simulated, weight-normalized clearances for neonates and children younger than 2 years of age reported from the literature. CONCLUSIONS PBPK modeling simulations revealed that the current US FDA-labeled pediatric dosing regimen listed in the prescribing information can produce the required exposure of levetiracetam in these target populations with dose adjustments for children with obesity aged 4 years to younger than 16 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia D Maglalang
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jaydeep Sinha
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UNC School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kanecia Zimmerman
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, PO Box 17969, Durham, NC, 27715, USA
| | - Sean McCann
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Andrea Edginton
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Christoph P Hornik
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, PO Box 17969, Durham, NC, 27715, USA
| | - Chi D Hornik
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, PO Box 17969, Durham, NC, 27715, USA
| | - William J Muller
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Amira Al-Uzri
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | | | | | | | - Eliana M Perrin
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Daniel Gonzalez
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, PO Box 17969, Durham, NC, 27715, USA.
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
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Lau A, Haag H, Maharaj A. A Simulation-Based Assessment of Levetiracetam Concentrations Following Fixed and Weight-Based Loading Doses: A Meta-Regression and Pharmacokinetic Modeling Analysis. J Clin Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38708556 DOI: 10.1002/jcph.2449] [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: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Current recommendations for refractory status epilepticus (SE) unresponsive to benzodiazepines suggest a loading dose of levetiracetam (LEV) of 60 mg/kg to a maximum of 4500 mg. LEV therapeutic drug monitoring can help guide therapy and is garnering increasing attention. The objective of this study is to simulate the probability of target attainment (PTA) of fixed dose and weight-based loading doses of LEV with respect to established therapeutic target concentrations. Meta-regression of the current literature was performed to evaluate the relationship between intravenous LEV loading dose and seizure cessation in refractory SE patients. A previously published pharmacokinetic model was used to simulate the PTA capacity of competing single intravenous dosing schemes (fixed vs weight-based dosing) to achieve maximum (Cpeak) and 12-h (C12h) plasma concentrations that exceed 12 mg/L. The meta-regression indicated that dosage was not a statistically significant modulator of seizure control at dosages between 20 and 60 mg/kg. Stochastic simulations showed all dosing schemes achieved plasma Cpeak >12 mg/L, but C12h levels were <12 mg/L in subjects over 60 kg with a fixed dose ≤2000 mg or in subjects <60 kg with a weight-based dose <30 mg/kg. Dosages of 40 and 60 mg/kg provided ≥90% PTAs across all weights. Using a weight-based loading dose of 40 mg/kg, up to a suggested maximum of 4500 mg, improves the likelihood of achieving a sustained therapeutic drug concentration after the initial LEV dose, whereas fixed <3000 mg may not achieve the desired concentration before maintenance dosing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Lau
- Emergency Medicine, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hans Haag
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Infectious Disease, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Anil Maharaj
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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D'Onofrio G, Riva A, Amadori E, Lattanzi S, Rose K, Verrotti A, Striano P. Pharmacokinetic considerations surrounding the use of levetiracetam for seizure prophylaxis in neurocritical care - an overview. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2022; 18:575-585. [PMID: 36006892 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2022.2117606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Levetiracetam (LEV) is one of the most widely used anti-seizure medications (ASMs) in clinical practice. This is due both to a different mechanism of action when compared to other ASMs and its easy handling. Indeed, because of its interesting pharmacokinetic properties, it is often used outside of the labelled indications, notably in the neurocritical setting as prophylaxis of epileptic seizures. AREAS COVERED A literature search was conducted and the most relevant studies on the pharmacokinetic properties of LEV were selected by two independent investigators. Current evidence on the use of ASM prophylaxis in the neurocritical setting was also reviewed, highlighting and discussing the strengths and limits of LEV as drug of choice for anti-epileptic prophylaxis in this scenario. EXPERT OPINION LEV has a "near-ideal" pharmacokinetic profile, which makes it an attractive drug for ASM prophylaxis in neurocritical care. However, current recommendations restrict ASMs prophylaxis to very selected circumstances and the role of LEV is marginal. Moreover, studies are generally designed to compare LEV versus phenytoin, whereas studies comparing LEV versus placebo are lacking. Further randomized trials will be needed to better elucidate LEV utility and its neuroprotective role in the neurocritical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca D'Onofrio
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Antonella Riva
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Amadori
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Simona Lattanzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Neurological Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Conca 71, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Klaus Rose
- klausrose Consulting, Riehen, Switzerland
| | - Alberto Verrotti
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06156 Perugia, Italy
| | - Pasquale Striano
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
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Glass EM, Kulkarni S, Eng C, Feng S, Malaviya A, Radhakrishnan R. Multiphysics pharmacokinetic model for targeted nanoparticles. FRONTIERS IN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY 2022; 4:934015. [PMID: 35909883 PMCID: PMC9335923 DOI: 10.3389/fmedt.2022.934015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanoparticles (NP) are being increasingly explored as vehicles for targeted drug delivery because they can overcome free therapeutic limitations by drug encapsulation, thereby increasing solubility and transport across cell membranes. However, a translational gap exists from animal to human studies resulting in only several NP having FDA approval. Because of this, researchers have begun to turn toward physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models to guide in vivo NP experimentation. However, typical PBPK models use an empirically derived framework that cannot be universally applied to varying NP constructs and experimental settings. The purpose of this study was to develop a physics-based multiscale PBPK compartmental model for determining continuous NP biodistribution. We successfully developed two versions of a physics-based compartmental model, models A and B, and validated the models with experimental data. The more physiologically relevant model (model B) had an output that more closely resembled experimental data as determined by normalized root mean squared deviation (NRMSD) analysis. A branched model was developed to enable the model to account for varying NP sizes. With the help of the branched model, we were able to show that branching in vasculature causes enhanced uptake of NP in the organ tissue. The models were solved using two of the most popular computational platforms, MATLAB and Julia. Our experimentation with the two suggests the highly optimized ODE solver package DifferentialEquations.jl in Julia outperforms MATLAB when solving a stiff system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs). We experimented with solving our PBPK model with a neural network using Julia's Flux.jl package. We were able to demonstrate that a neural network can learn to solve a system of ODEs when the system can be made non-stiff via quasi-steady-state approximation (QSSA). Our model incorporates modules that account for varying NP surface chemistries, multiscale vascular hydrodynamic effects, and effects of the immune system to create a more comprehensive and modular model for predicting NP biodistribution in a variety of NP constructs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M. Glass
- Department of Computational Applied Mathematics and Statistics, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Sahil Kulkarni
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Christina Eng
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Shurui Feng
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Avishi Malaviya
- Department of Bioengineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Ravi Radhakrishnan
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Methaneethorn J, Leelakanok N. Population Pharmacokinetics of Levetiracetam: a Systematic Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 17:122-134. [PMID: 33622228 DOI: 10.2174/1574884716666210223110658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of levetiracetam (LEV) has been increasing given its favorable pharmacokinetic profile. Numerous population pharmacokinetic studies for LEV have been conducted. However, there are some discrepancies regarding factors affecting its pharmacokinetic variability. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to summarize significant predictors for LEV pharmacokinetics as well as the need for dosage adjustments. METHODS We performed a systematic search for population pharmacokinetic studies of LEV conducted using a nonlinear-mixed effect approach from PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL Complete, and Science Direct databases from their inception to March 2020. Information on study design, model methodologies, significant covariate-parameter relationships, and model evaluation was extracted. The quality of the reported studies was also assessed. RESULTS A total of 16 studies were included in this review. Only two studies were conducted with a two-compartment model, while the rest were performed with a one-compartment structure. Bodyweight and creatinine clearance were the two most frequently identified covariates on LEV clearance (CLLEV). Additionally, postmenstrual age (PMA) or postnatal age (PNA) were significant predictors for CLLEV in neonates. Only three studies externally validated the models. Two studies conducted pharmacodynamic models for LEV with relatively small sample size. CONCLUSION Significant predictors for LEV pharmacokinetics are highlighted in this review. For future research, a population pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic model using a larger sample size should be conducted. From a clinical perspective, the published models should be externally evaluated before clinical implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janthima Methaneethorn
- Pharmacokinetic Research Unit, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok. Thailand
| | - Nattawut Leelakanok
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Burapha University, Chonburi. Thailand
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Li ZR, Wang CY, Zhu X, Jiao Z. Population Pharmacokinetics of Levetiracetam: A Systematic Review. Clin Pharmacokinet 2021; 60:305-318. [PMID: 33447943 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-020-00963-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levetiracetam has been widely used as a treatment option for different types of epilepsy in both adults and children. Because of its large between-subject variability, several population pharmacokinetic studies have been performed to identify its pharmacokinetic covariates, and thus facilitate individualised therapy. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review was to provide a synopsis for population pharmacokinetic studies of levetiracetam and explore the identified influencing covariates. METHODS We systematically searched the PubMed and Embase databases from inception to 30 June 2020. The information on study designs, target population, model characteristics, and identified covariates was summarised. Moreover, the pharmacokinetic profiles were compared among neonates, children, and adults. RESULTS Fourteen studies were included, among which two involved neonates, four involved children, two involved both children and adults, and six involved adults only. The median value of apparent clearance for children (0.074 L/h/kg [range 0.038-0.079]) was higher than that for adults (0.054 L/h/kg [range 0.039-0.061]). Body weight was found to significantly influence the apparent clearance and volume of distribution, whereas renal function influenced the clearance. Likewise, coadministration with enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drugs (such as carbamazepine and phenytoin) increased the drug clearance by 9-22%, whereas coadministration with valproate acid decreased it by 18.8%. CONCLUSION Levetiracetam dose regimen is dependent on the body size and renal function of patients. Further studies are needed to evaluate levetiracetam pharmacokinetics in neonates and pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Ran Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 241 Huaihai West Road, Shanghai, 200030, People's Republic of China.,Department of Pharmacy, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen-Yu Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 241 Huaihai West Road, Shanghai, 200030, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Zheng Jiao
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 241 Huaihai West Road, Shanghai, 200030, People's Republic of China.
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Clinical Pharmacology Studies in Critically Ill Children. Pharm Res 2016; 34:7-24. [PMID: 27585904 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-016-2033-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Developmental and physiological changes in children contribute to variation in drug disposition with age. Additionally, critically ill children suffer from various life-threatening conditions that can lead to pathophysiological alterations that further affect pharmacokinetics (PK). Some factors that can alter PK in this patient population include variability in tissue distribution caused by protein binding changes and fluid shifts, altered drug elimination due to organ dysfunction, and use of medical interventions that can affect drug disposition (e.g., extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and continuous renal replacement therapy). Performing clinical studies in critically ill children is challenging because there is large inter-subject variability in the severity and time course of organ dysfunction; some critical illnesses are rare, which can affect subject enrollment; and critically ill children usually have multiple organ failure, necessitating careful selection of a study design. As a result, drug dosing in critically ill children is often based on extrapolations from adults or non-critically ill children. Dedicated clinical studies in critically ill children are urgently needed to identify optimal dosing of drugs in this vulnerable population. This review will summarize the effect of critical illness on pediatric PK, the challenges associated with performing studies in this vulnerable subpopulation, and the clinical PK studies performed to date for commonly used drugs.
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Nicolas JM, Hannestad J, Holden D, Kervyn S, Nabulsi N, Tytgat D, Huang Y, Chanteux H, Staelens L, Matagne A, Mathy FX, Mercier J, Stockis A, Carson RE, Klitgaard H. Brivaracetam, a selective high-affinity synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) ligand with preclinical evidence of high brain permeability and fast onset of action. Epilepsia 2015; 57:201-9. [PMID: 26663401 DOI: 10.1111/epi.13267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Rapid distribution to the brain is a prerequisite for antiepileptic drugs used for treatment of acute seizures. The preclinical studies described here investigated the high-affinity synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A) antiepileptic drug brivara-cetam (BRV) for its rate of brain penetration and its onset of action. BRV was compared with levetiracetam (LEV). METHODS In vitro permeation studies were performed using Caco-2 cells. Plasma and brain levels were measured over time after single oral dosing to audiogenic mice and were correlated with anticonvulsant activity. Tissue distribution was investigated after single dosing to rat (BRV and LEV) and dog (LEV only). Positron emission tomography (PET) displacement studies were performed in rhesus monkeys using the SV2A PET tracer [11C]UCB-J. The time course of PET tracer displacement was measured following single intravenous (IV) dosing with LEV or BRV. Rodent distribution data and physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling were used to compute blood-brain barrier permeability (permeability surface area product, PS) values and then predict brain kinetics in man. RESULTS In rodents, BRV consistently showed a faster entry into the brain than LEV; this correlated with a faster onset of action against seizures in audiogenic susceptible mice. The higher permeability of BRV was also demonstrated in human cells in vitro. PBPK modeling predicted that, following IV dosing to human subjects, BRV might distribute to the brain within a few minutes compared with approximately 1 h for LEV (PS of 0.315 and 0.015 ml/min/g for BRV and LEV, respectively). These data were supported by a nonhuman primate PET study showing faster SV2A occupancy by BRV compared with LEV. SIGNIFICANCE These preclinical data demonstrate that BRV has rapid brain entry and fast brain SV2A occupancy, consistent with the fast onset of action in the audiogenic seizure mice assay. The potential benefit of BRV for treatment of acute seizures remains to be confirmed in clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daniel Holden
- PET Center, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, U.S.A
| | | | - Nabeel Nabulsi
- PET Center, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, U.S.A
| | | | - Yiyun Huang
- PET Center, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, U.S.A
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Richard E Carson
- PET Center, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, U.S.A
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Italiano D, Perucca E. Clinical pharmacokinetics of new-generation antiepileptic drugs at the extremes of age: an update. Clin Pharmacokinet 2014; 52:627-45. [PMID: 23640503 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-013-0067-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsies occur across the entire age range, and their incidence peaks in the first years of life and in the elderly. Therefore, antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are commonly used at the extremes of age. Rational prescribing in these age groups requires not only an understanding of the drugs' pharmacodynamic properties, but also careful consideration of potential age-related changes in their pharmacokinetic profile. The present article, which updates a review published in 2006 in this journal, focuses on recent findings on the pharmacokinetics of new-generation AEDs in neonates, infants, children, and the elderly. Significant new information on the pharmacokinetics of new AEDs in the perinatal period has been acquired, particularly for lamotrigine and levetiracetam. As a result of slow maturation of the enzymes involved in glucuronide conjugation, lamotrigine elimination occurs at a particularly slow rate in neonates, and becomes gradually more efficient during the first months of life. In the case of levetiracetam, elimination occurs primarily by renal excretion and is also slow at birth, but drug clearance increases rapidly thereafter and can even double within 1 week. In general, infants older than 2-3 months and children show higher drug clearance (normalized for body weight) than adults. This pattern was confirmed in recent studies that investigated the pediatric pharmacokinetics of several new AEDs, including levetiracetam, rufinamide, stiripentol, and eslicarbazepine acetate. At the other extreme of age, in the elderly, drug clearance is generally reduced compared with younger adults because of less efficient drug-metabolizing activity, decreased renal function, or both. This general pattern, described previously for several AEDs, was confirmed in recent studies on the effect of old age on the clearance of felbamate, levetiracetam, pregabalin, lacosamide, and retigabine. For those drugs which are predominantly eliminated by renal excretion, aging-related pharmacokinetic changes could be predicted by measuring creatinine clearance (CLCR). Overall, most recent findings confirm that age is a major factor influencing the pharmacokinetic profile of AEDs. However, pharmacokinetic variability at any age can be considerable, and the importance of other factors should not be disregarded. These include genetic factors, co-morbidities, and drug interactions, particularly those caused by concomitantly administered AEDs which induce or inhibit drug-metabolizing enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Italiano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Stockis A, Lu S, Tonner F, Otoul C. Clinical pharmacology of levetiracetam for the treatment of epilepsy. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2014; 2:339-50. [DOI: 10.1586/ecp.09.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Weinstock A, Ruiz M, Gerard D, Toublanc N, Stockis A, Farooq O, Dilley D, Karmon Y, Elgie MJ, Schiemann-Delgado J. Prospective Open-Label, Single-Arm, Multicenter, Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetic Studies of Intravenous Levetiracetam in Children With Epilepsy. J Child Neurol 2013; 28:1423-1429. [PMID: 23533164 DOI: 10.1177/0883073813480241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Levetiracetam given via intravenous administration has been shown to be an effective alternative in adults with epilepsy when oral administration is not feasible. This study was a prospective single-arm, multicenter study to assess tolerability, safety, and pharmacokinetics of intravenous levetiracetam in children with epilepsy. Children with epilepsy ages 1 month to 16 years requiring intravenous levetiracetam were enrolled. Assessments included vital signs, electrocardiogram, hematology, chemistry, plasma concentrations of antiepileptic medications, weight, physical/neurological examinations, and pharmacokinetics. A total of 52 patients were enrolled. Mild to moderate treatment-emergent adverse events occurred in 63%, the most frequent being pyrexia and dry mouth. Most other treatment-emergent adverse events were considered unrelated to intravenous levetiracetam administration. Therefore, intravenous levetiracetam in the acute setting was overall well tolerated in children 1 month to 16 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arie Weinstock
- 1State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
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Ng YT, Hastriter EV, Cardenas JF, Khoury EM, Chapman KE. Intravenous levetiracetam in children with seizures: a prospective safety study. J Child Neurol 2010; 25:551-5. [PMID: 20413804 DOI: 10.1177/0883073809348795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In 2006, intravenous levetiracetam received US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for adjunctive treatment of partial onset seizures in adults with epilepsy, 16 years or older. We have established the safety, tolerability, and dosage of intravenous levetiracetam in children. This prospective study included 30 children (6 months to <15 years of age). Patients were administered a single dose of intravenous levetiracetam (50 mg/kg, maximal dose 2500 mg) over 15 minutes. A blood level of levetiracetam was performed 10 minutes after the infusion. The treated children's average age was 6.3 years (range 0.5-14.8 years). The mean levetiracetam level was 83.3 microg/mL (range 47-128 microg/mL). There were no serious adverse reactions. Minor reactions included sleepiness, fatigue, and restlessness. An apparent decrease in seizure frequency across all seizure types was noted. The dose of 50 mg/kg was well tolerated by the patients and is a safe, appropriate loading dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-tze Ng
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona 85013, USA.
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13
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Role of intravenous levetiracetam in acute seizure management of children. Pediatr Neurol 2009; 41:37-9. [PMID: 19520272 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2009.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2008] [Revised: 02/06/2009] [Accepted: 02/16/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Status epilepticus is defined as a seizure lasting beyond 30 minutes. Children with intractable epilepsy undergo frequent hospital admissions secondary to status epilepticus or because of acute exacerbation of seizures. Intravenous levetiracetam became available in August 2006 for use in patients aged above 16 years. There are insufficient data about the efficacy and safety of intravenous levetiracetam in children. We retrospectively analyzed data from children treated with intravenous levetiracetam for status epilepticus and acute exacerbation of seizures. We acquired data from our institution's electronic medical records concerning patients with status epilepticus and acute exacerbation of seizures who received intravenous levetiracetam. Thirty-two patients (age range, 2 months to 18 years) had received a levetiracetam load of 25-50 mg/kg for status epilepticus. There were 17 (53.1%) males and 15 (46.8%) females. Response to intravenous levetiracetam in all patients was favorable. Status epilepticus ceased clinically and electrographically. Eighteen patients (56.5%) received intravenous levetiracetam after receiving fosphenytoin and Ativan with no response. No serious side effects were evident. Fifteen patients (46.8%) were discharged on levetiracetam monotherapy, and 9 (28.1%) received levetiracetam as adjunctive therapy after discharge from the hospital. Intravenous levetiracetam can be used adjunctively or as monotherapy in children with status epilepticus and acute exacerbation of seizures.
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Intravenous levetiracetam in critically ill children with status epilepticus or acute repetitive seizures. Pediatr Crit Care Med 2009; 10:505-10. [PMID: 19325512 PMCID: PMC2946960 DOI: 10.1097/pcc.0b013e3181a0e1cf] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Intravenous (IV) levetiracetam (LEV) is approved for use in patients older than 16 years and may be useful in critically ill children, although there is little data available regarding pharmacokinetics. We aim to investigate the safety, an appropriate dosing, and efficacy of IV LEV in critically ill children. DESIGN We describe a cohort of critically ill children who received IV LEV for status epilepticus, including refractory or nonconvulsive status, or acute repetitive seizures. RESULTS There were no acute adverse effects noted. Children had temporary cessation of ongoing refractory status epilepticus, termination of ongoing nonconvulsive status epilepticus, cessation of acute repetitive seizures, or reduction in epileptiform discharges with clinical correlate. CONCLUSIONS IV LEV was effective in terminating status epilepticus or acute repetitive seizures and well tolerated in critically ill children. Further study is needed to elucidate the role of IV LEV in critically ill children.
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Chhun S, Jullien V, Rey E, Dulac O, Chiron C, Pons G. Population pharmacokinetics of levetiracetam and dosing recommendation in children with epilepsy. Epilepsia 2009; 50:1150-7. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01974.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Uges JWF, van Huizen MD, Engelsman J, Wilms EB, Touw DJ, Peeters E, Vecht CJ. Safety and pharmacokinetics of intravenous levetiracetam infusion as add-on in status epilepticus. Epilepsia 2008; 50:415-21. [PMID: 19054418 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01889.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the feasibility and safety of intravenous (iv) levetiracetam (LEV) added to the standard therapeutic regimen in adults with status epilepticus (SE), and as secondary objective to assess a population pharmacokinetic (PK) model for ivLEV in patients with SE. METHODS In 12 adults presenting with SE, 2,500 mg ivLEV was added as soon as possible to standardized protocol, consisting of iv clonazepam and/or rectal diazepam, as needed followed by phenytoin or valproic acid. ivLEV was administered over approximately 5 min, in general after administration of clonazepam, regardless the need for further treatment. During 24-h follow-up, patients were observed for any clinically relevant side-effects. Blood samples for PK analysis were available in 10 patients. A population PK model was developed by iterative two-stage Bayesian analysis and compared to PK data of healthy volunteers. RESULTS Eleven patients with a median age of 60 years were included in the per protocol analysis. Five were diagnosed as generalized-convulsive SE, five as partial-convulsive SE, and one as a nonconvulsive SE. The median time from hospital admission to ivLEV was 36 min. No serious side effects could be related directly to the administration of ivLEV. During PK analysis, four patients showed a clear distribution phase, lacking in the others. The PK of the population was best described by a two-compartment population model. Mean (standard deviation, SD) population parameters included volume of distribution of central compartment: 0.45 (0.084) L/kg; total body clearance: 0.0476 (0.0147) L/h/kg; distribution rate constants, central to peripheral compartment (k(12)): 0.24 (0.12)/h, and peripheral to central (k(21)): 0.70 (0.22)/h. Mean maximal plasma concentration was 85 (19) mg/L. DISCUSSION The addition of ivLEV to the standard regimen for controlling SE seems feasible and safe. PK data of ivLEV in patients with SE correspond to earlier values derived from healthy volunteers, confirming a two-compartment population model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joris W F Uges
- Department of Neurology, Medical Center Haaglanden, The Hague, The Netherlands
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Michaelides C, Thibert RL, Shapiro MJ, Kinirons P, John T, Manchharam D, Thiele EA. Tolerability and dosing experience of intravenous levetiracetam in children and infants. Epilepsy Res 2008; 81:143-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2008.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2008] [Revised: 04/29/2008] [Accepted: 05/11/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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