Researchers Develop a Novel Glycopeptide Antibiotic Similar to Vancomycin That

Researchers develop a novel glycopeptide antibiotic similar to vancomycin that is bactericidal against many gram-positive bacteria.  From animal studies, they determine that the effective drug dosage is 5 mg/kg/day administered intravenously in divided doses.  In a clinical trial, the antibiotic is administered to adult and neonatal patients with gram-positive infections.  The drug is found to be effective in adults but not in neonates.  During further analysis, plasma concentrations of the drug are measured in both groups, with the results shown in the image below: Compared to adults, which of the following neonatal factors is the most likely cause of the difference in drug effectiveness?

A) Decreased cytochrome P450 activity
B) Decreased renal blood flow
C) Elevated plasma protein level
D) High body water content

Correct Answer:

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