[Serial measurement of serum levels of amikacin. Value in therapy].

Amikacin serum levels were measured 256 times in 65 patients admitted into the intensive care unit for various reasons over 18 months. These measurements confirmed the dosage of 5 micrograms per kg repeated every 8 hours in patients with normal renal function. Forty eight hours before the first measurement, a control assay is essential to check that there is no residual antibiotic and that the antibacterial activity of the serum is zero. After this a single weekly control is sufficient to check that the residual level is effective and non toxic, i.e. between 2 and 6 micrograms per ml. However, in patients with acute renal insufficiency, there are three dosage schemas which should be used depending on the creatinine level. These three schemas are nevertheless not sufficient to continue effective therapy without a risk of toxic side effects. It is therefore necessary to check both the pack levels and the residual levels regularly from the beginning of treatment. Two to three weekly controls are essential to avoid a risk of toxic side effects.