Development of a population pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic model of a single bolus dose of unfractionated heparin in paediatric patients

Abstract

Background: Unfractionated heparin (UFH) is the anticoagulant of choice in paediatric patients undergoing a variety of cardiac procedures. There are currently no population pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic (PKPD) models for UFH in paediatrics. Objective: The aim of the present study was to develop and evaluate a PKPD model of UFH in paediatrics. Methods: Data from 64 children who received 75–100 IU kg−1of UFH during cardiac angiography were analysed. Five blood samples were collected at baseline and at 15, 30, 45 and 120 min postdose. The UFH concentration was quantified using a protamine titration assay. The UFH effect was quantified using activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). A PKPD..