Design of initial dosage regimen using a programmable calculator.

A programmable calculator procedure for the determination of dosage regimens to achieve desired steady state concentrations is described. The dosage regimen prediction is based on data from the literature on pharmacokinetic parameters of drugs and correction factors specific for the patient's condition, such as renal failure, geriatric patient and congestive heart failure. The program is designed to generate dosage regimens based on desired steady state trough level, desired steady state peak level, desired mean steady state level, or to fluctuate between desired steady state peak and trough levels. The program can be used for I.V. and extravascular route of administration. A detailed program description and user instructions are presented and illustrated by three examples.