Characteristics of Pharmacokinetics of Cefotaxime and Clarithromycin in Heavy Smokers with Pneumonia
The aim of the investigation is to study the pharmacokinetics of cefotaxime and clarithromycin in heavy smokers with community-acquired pneumonia.
Materials and Methods. In blood serum of 22 patients with community-acquired pneumonia (14 heavy smokers, smoking index ≥25 packs/years — the main group and 8 non-smokers — control group) there has been determined the concentration of cefotaxime (in 11 patients — 7 smokers and 4 non-smokers) and clarithromycin (in 11 patients — 7 smokers and 4 non-smokers).
Results. There was determined a marked decrease of preparations concentration in smokers: 2.2—5.9 times as less — in cefotaxime administration (p>0.05) and 1.2—2.2 times — in clarithromycin administration (p<0.05). According to the data obtained, cefotaxime is to be administered carefully as a starting empirical therapy of pneumonia in heavy smokers. If cefotaxime and clarithromycin administration is required, maximum permissible doses are to be used.
