Pediatric Clinical Pharmacology examines how medications behave in the bodies of infants, children and adolescents. Unlike adults, children process drugs differently due to developmental changes in absorption, metabolism, distribution and elimination. Pediatric pharmacology ensures that treatments are safe, effective and tailored to age, weight, organ maturity and individual variability. This session explores how scientific principles, research findings and clinical guidance combine to support rational prescribing and medication optimisation in pediatric practice.

Medication dosing in children requires careful calculation and constant re-evaluation. Weight-based adjustments, age-specific safety profiles and physiologic differences create a complex environment for prescribing. Clinicians often explore updated dosing frameworks during a pediatrics conference, where experts outline evidence-informed strategies, emerging therapies and safety considerations. Pediatric Clinical Pharmacology is central to preventing medication errors, therapeutic failures and adverse drug reactions, which can occur more frequently in children due to narrow therapeutic windows and rapidly changing physiology.

A major focus involves understanding pediatric drug metabolism, which varies significantly according to developmental stage. Neonates may have immature liver and kidney function, while adolescents undergo hormonal changes that influence drug response. Pharmacology therefore involves interpreting laboratory values, monitoring therapeutic levels, adjusting dosages for chronic conditions and evaluating interactions with other medications, supplements or underlying diseases.

Pediatric pharmacology also intersects with genetics, microbiome research and precision medicine. Pharmacogenomic insights help identify which children may respond differently to specific drugs or experience heightened risk of side effects. Evidence from clinical trials, population studies and post-marketing surveillance informs updates to pediatric dosing guidelines. Communication with families is essential to ensure medication adherence, clarify dosage instructions and address concerns about long-term effects.

As new therapies emerge—including biologics, targeted drugs and gene-modifying treatments—pediatric pharmacology will play an even more critical role. Ensuring ethical prescribing, monitoring safety and tailoring therapies to each child’s unique profile remain priorities. This session provides clinicians with the foundation needed to navigate complex drug decisions and deliver safe pharmacotherapy throughout childhood.