Why kids are not 'Small Adults' in Medicine?

Pharmacy
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Children are different from adults not just smaller in size, they are physiologically different. Their bodies handle disease and medicines differently.
● Drug absorption is different- Gastric pH is higher in neonates
● Distribution is not the same. -Higher total body water and lower fat content
● Immature metabolism- Liver enzymes are undeveloped in infants and neonates
● Reduced renal excretions- Kidney function usually matures over time
● Organs are still developing

Childres PK &PD
Childres PK &PD1536×1024 567 KB

Children are not small adults because their pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and organ maturity differ significantly so there is the need for making dosing and safety unique.

What’s your thoughts on Children body mechanism and dosing of drugs.

MBH/PS

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Drug dose should be calculated before prescribing any drug in pediatric patients.

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dose and weight should be caculated and then given…and very great article

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Definitely, calculation of dosage must be done based on weight and age of children .

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This is actually a very important concept …especially for pharmacy students. I like that it clearly breaks down ADME differences.

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I agree with this. Children aren’t just small adults. their unique physiology tells us why pediatric care demands special attention.

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