The challenges and practical considerations with optimizing neonatal pharmacotherapy

INTRODUCTION: Optimal neonatal pharmacotherapy requires the implementation of high-quality information about medicines. AREAS COVERED: High quality information about medicines needs carefully designed programmes that are centered on the needs of people affected by neonatal conditions, delivered using appropriate dosage forms, based on good pharmacometrics, and built around causal pathways reflected in study eligibility criteria and endpoints. Implementation of information about medicines requires multidisciplinary effort that is rooted in family integrated care (or similar approaches) and rigorously evaluated. Collaboration promotes effective work to generate high-quality information and to implement it. EXPERT OPINION: A range of contemporary approaches can be applied to neonatal medicines development but need strong underpinning research supplemented by clear research questions that target specific contexts of use. Appropriate prescribing, administration, and monitoring of medicines to neonates depend on well-resourced Clinical Pharmacists who implement evidence-based approaches to their work and are embedded in a team centered on the baby and family.