Pharmacokinetics and Dose Optimization of Ethambutol in Children on First-Line Antituberculosis Therapy: An Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis.
J Infect DisSep 23, 2026
Tae Kyu Chung, Eunsol Yang, Maureen Shin et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This meta-analysis examined the pharmacokinetics of ethambutol (EMB) in 220 children aged 0.2-15 years undergoing first-line tuberculosis therapy. The study found that current WHO-recommended doses resulted in suboptimal drug exposure for children weighing less than 25 kg. Optimized weight-band dosing could increase doses for approximately 40.5% of patients.
Key findings
- Children weighing <25 kg had median EMB exposures below the target distribution at current WHO doses.
- Optimized dosing could increase doses for approximately 40.5% of pediatric patients.
- An additional 5% of patients may benefit from the optimized dosing strategy.
Why it matters
Ensuring adequate drug exposure in pediatric patients is crucial for effective tuberculosis treatment. This study highlights the need for revised dosing guidelines to improve therapeutic outcomes and minimize the risk of treatment failure.