Effect of formula feeding on oral absorption of caffeine in premature infants.

The systemic absorption of orally administered caffeine was evaluated in 16 premature infants receiving therapy for recurrent apnea. An oral bolus dose of caffeine (10 mg/kg) was given during a fasted state (n = 8) or immediately preceding formula (n = 8). The first-order absorption rate constant (ka) was estimated from the rise in the plasma concentration-time curve and extent of absorption was estimated by the area under the concentration-time curve. Therapeutic concentrations of caffeine were achieved rapidly followed by very slow elimination of drug. No difference between the fasted and fed groups was found in the apparent rate or extent of caffeine absorption, suggesting that caffeine can be administered concomitantly with feedings.