Evaluation and Optimisation of Current Milrinone Prescribing for the Treatment and Prevention of Low Cardiac Output Syndrome in Paediatric Patients After Open Heart Surgery Using a Physiology-Based Pharmacokinetic Drug-Disease Model

Authors: Vogt W
Publication: Clin Pharmacokinet
Keywords: adolescent, adult, biological models, cardiac output, cardiotonic agents, child, drug therapy, humans, infant, metabolism, milrinone, newborn infant, pharmacokinetics, preschool child
Software: ADMET Predictor®

Background & Objective

Milrinone is the drug of choice for the treatment and prevention of low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS) in paediatric patients after open heart surgery across Europe. Discrepancies, however, among prescribing guidance, clinical studies and practice pattern require clarification to ensure safe and effective prescribing. However, the clearance prediction equations derived from classical pharmacokinetic modelling provide limited support as they have recently failed a clinical practice evaluation. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate current milrinone dosing using physiology-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modelling and simulation to complement the existing pharmacokinetic knowledge and propose optimised dosing regimens as a basis for improving the standard of care for paediatric patients.