Pharmacokinetics and protein binding of cefazolin and cephalothin in patients with cirrhosis.

The effects of liver disease on the pharmacokinetics and protein binding of cefazolin and cephalothin were studied in patients with cirrhosis, chronic active hepatitis or normal liver function. The T1/2 and mean residence time of cefazolin were significantly shorter in cirrhosis. Cephalothin clearance was decreased by cirrhosis. Plasma protein binding of cefazolin, but not cephalothin was significantly reduced in cirrhosis. It is suggested that no dose reduction is necessary for either drug in severe hepatic impairment.