TDM refers to Therapeutic Drug Monitoring. It's a process used to measure the concentration of certain drugs in the blood to optimize treatment. The following are examples of drugs commonly monitored through TDM:
Classes of Drugs Monitored by TDM
TDM is especially important for drugs with a narrow therapeutic index, meaning the range between effective and toxic doses is small. It helps ensure patients receive the correct amount of medication, maximizing benefits and minimizing adverse effects.
Antibiotics
- Amikacin: An aminoglycoside antibiotic used to treat serious infections.
- Gentamicin: Another aminoglycoside antibiotic, also used for serious infections.
- Vancomycin: A glycopeptide antibiotic used against Gram-positive bacteria.
Heart Medicines (Cardiovascular Drugs)
- Amiodarone: An antiarrhythmic drug used to treat irregular heartbeats.
- Digoxin: Used to treat heart failure and certain irregular heartbeats.
- Lidocaine: An antiarrhythmic and local anesthetic.
- Procainamide: Another antiarrhythmic drug.
Anti-Seizure Medicines (Antiepileptic Drugs)
- Phenobarbital: A barbiturate used to prevent seizures.
- Phenytoin: An anticonvulsant used to control seizures.
Medicines That Treat Autoimmune Diseases (Immunosuppressants)
- Cyclosporine: An immunosuppressant used to prevent organ rejection after transplantation and to treat autoimmune disorders.
- Tacrolimus: Another immunosuppressant with similar uses to cyclosporine.
In summary, TDM is applied to a variety of drugs across different therapeutic areas to ensure optimal and safe treatment outcomes. This includes antibiotics, heart medications, anti-seizure drugs, and immunosuppressants, among others.
