Researchers Are Developing a New Glycopeptide Antibiotic Similar to Vancomycin

Researchers are developing a new glycopeptide antibiotic similar to vancomycin.  Susceptibility testing reveals that the new drug is bactericidal against gram-positive organisms at serum concentrations above 15 µg/mL.  Two different dosage regimens are developed to achieve a target serum trough concentration of 15-20 µg/mL: one administered as 1 gram every 6 hours and the other as 2 grams every 12 hours.  The two regimens are tested in healthy volunteers during an early-phase clinical trial, and the following pharmacokinetic profiles are obtained. Compared to the 12-hour dosing regimen, the 6-hour regimen is most likely to exhibit which of the following features?

A) Decreased renal clearance
B) Higher average plasma drug levels
C) Improved patient compliance
D) Lower drug toxicity
E) Narrower therapeutic window

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