S13C - The Utility of Antimicrobial Continuous Infusions in the Critically Ill Patient

Increasing frequencies of multidrug-resistant infections have been noted in human and veterinary ICU patient populations, emphasizing the importance of appropriate and effective treatment protocols for these patients. Critically ill patients possess a vast array of pathophysiologic changes that can complicate antibiotic dosing, such as increases in the volume of distribution and increased drug clearance. Dosing regimens must adhere to pharmacodynamic principles while also taking into consideration the pharmacokinetics for each patient. Previous studies have shown clinical cure superiority and better efficacy with continuous infusions of antimicrobials as they possess a higher likelihood of attaining pharmacodynamic/pharmacokinetic targets.