Antimicrobial dose adaptation in obese subjects

Obesity is associated with pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic alterations, which can modify antimicrobial exposure when prescribed at usual doses. Prescribing the wrong dose in an obese subject can result in either toxicity or therapeutic failure. This review describes and details the latest data on the dosage, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of antimicrobials (antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals and antituberculosis drugs) in obese patients. The researchers' aim is to develop and propose possible dosage strategies to best adapt the doses of these drugs in the context of obesity, where data and information are sometimes difficult to obtain.