International Digest

Single or multiple doses of aminoglycosides

Canadian Medical Association Journal 1996; 155: 428-429

Source: Barza M, Ioannidis JPA, Cappelleri JC, Lau J. Single or multiple daily doses of aminoglycosides: a meta-analysis. BMJ 1996; 312: 338-45.

Researchers in Boston conducted a meta-analysis of 21 randomized trials that compared the efficacy and safety of single daily doses of intravenous aminoglycosides and multiple daily doses. The 21 trials represented 3091 cases of bacterial infection. The meta-analysis revealed trends toward a reduction in antibiotic failures and nephrotoxicity with single daily doses; however, the trends were not significant, perhaps because of the small samples. No differences were found between the two regimens in ototoxicity or mortality. Given the convenience and reduced cost of single daily dosing, the authors conclude that this regimen should become the standard.

| CMAJ August 15, 1996 (vol 155, no 4) |