What typically changes in the pharmacokinetics of medications for the pediatric population?

In the pediatric population, distribution patterns of medications may differ significantly from those in adults due to various physiological factors. Infants and young children have a higher body water composition and lower body fat percentage compared to adults, which affects how drugs are dispersed throughout the body. For example, hydrophilic drugs may require larger doses in children to achieve therapeutic levels because their total body water is higher. Additionally, protein binding differs in pediatrics; neonatal and young children may have lower levels of plasma proteins, which can lead to a higher proportion of free (active) drug in the bloodstream.

These differences in distribution can impact the effectiveness and safety of medications, requiring healthcare providers to adjust dosages accordingly. Understanding these unique distribution patterns is crucial for effective pharmacotherapy in pediatric patients, ensuring that medications are both safe and efficacious.