Abstract
The time course of lidocaine [an antiarrhythmic drug] plasma concentrations following various modes of administration to patients were predicted by computer. Initiating therapy with a single i.v. bolus dose was unsatisfactory; plasma levels during the 1st h were potentially toxic after a 200 mg bolus and subtherapeutic after a 50-100 mg bolus. After 2 bolus doses of 100 mg, separated by 20-30 min, or a rapid loading infusion over 15-60 min, therapeutic concentrations were achieved and maintained. Pharmacokinetic principles can be of value in devising rational approaches to lidocaine dosage.

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