Recommendations for the preparation and administration of antituberculosis drugs in children. Second phase of the Magistral Project of the Spanish Network for the Study of Paediatric Tuberculosis (pTBred)

Abstract

The Spanish Network for the Study of Paediatric Tuberculosis has shown a lack of national consensus on the treatment of tuberculosis in children, partly due to the unavailability of paediatric presentations of antituberculosis drugs. The harmonisation of tuberculosis treatment in children is a priority in Spain. A joint action is proposed by a group of Spanish experts in childhood tuberculosis and in the area of Paediatric Pharmacology. To this end, a pTBred-led workgroup of members from five scientific bodies has been created. Drug pharmaceutical compounding in oral suspensions or oral solutions are recommended as follows: isoniazid 50mg/mL, pyrazinamide 100mg/mL, and ethambutol 50mg/mL. Raw materials, period of validity, and storage conditions are specified. Recommendations for the use of fixed-dose combination drugs are also established. If oral solutions/suspensions or fixed-dose combination drugs are not appropriate, the use of crushed tablets is recommended. Adherence to treatment and optimal dosing of antituberculosis drugs are critical in the control and eradication of TB. This multidisciplinary document provides an opportunity to promote the appropriate treatment of paediatric tuberculosis in Spain, and should become a useful tool for paediatricians and pharmacists.