Optimization of the betamethasone and dexamethasone dosing regimen during pregnancy: a combined placenta perfusion and pregnancy physiologically-based pharmacokinetic modeling approach

Antenatal betamethasone and dexamethasone are prescribed to women who are at high risk of premature birth to prevent neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. The current treatment regimens, effective to prevent neonatal RDS, may be suboptimal. Recently, concerns have been raised regarding possible adverse long-term neurological outcomes due to high fetal drug exposures. Data from non-human primates and sheep suggest maintaining a fetal plasma concentration above 1 ng/mL for 48 hours to retain efficacy, while avoiding undesirable high fetal plasma levels.

Source: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology - May 17, 2024 Category: OBGYN Authors: Joyce E.M. Van Der Heijden, Hedwig Van Hove, Niki M. Van Elst, Petra Van Den Broek, Joris Van Drongelen, Hubertina C.J. Scheepers, Saskia N. De Wildt, Rick Greupink Tags: Original Research: Obstetrics Source Type: research