Volume 20, Issue 2 p. 166-181

Aerosolized Antimicrobial Therapy in Acutely Ill Patients

G. Christopher Wood Pharm.D.

Corresponding Author

G. Christopher Wood Pharm.D.

Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, The University of Tennessee, Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee

Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Tennessee, Memphis, 26 South Dunlap, Suite 202, Memphis, TN 38163Search for more papers by this author
Bradley A. Boucher Pharm.D., FCCP

Bradley A. Boucher Pharm.D., FCCP

Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, The University of Tennessee, Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee

Search for more papers by this author
First published: 17 January 2012
Citations: 24

Abstract

Recent data are sparking renewed interest in therapy with aerosolized antimicrobials in critically ill patients as well as other populations such as those with neutropenia, human immunodeficiency virus infection, and cystic fibrosis. Pneumonia is a common complication in these patients and is associated with substantial morbidity and increased mortality. Clinical trials evaluated aerosolized antimicrobials for the prevention and treatment of pneumonia in hospitalized patients. In addition, factors that affect the pulmonary deposition of aerosolized drugs in mechanically ventilated patients were identified.