Dosing Tool
Review dermatology biologic medication dosing in 4 simple steps.
Get Started: 1. Select the medication 2. Select the appropriate indication 3. Add age and weight 4. Calculate
Dermatology
Understanding Loading and Maintenance Doses
Loading Doses: Achieving Rapid Therapeutic Levels
Loading doses are higher initial doses administered during the first weeks of treatment to rapidly build up medication concentrations to therapeutic levels. Some biologics require multiple loading doses at weeks 0, 1, and 2, while others use a single higher dose. Not all biologics require loading doses.
Maintenance Doses: Sustaining Long-Term Control
Maintenance doses keep medication concentrations stable over time. Intervals vary widely—weekly, every two weeks, monthly, or every 8-12 weeks depending on the medication's half-life and pharmacokinetic profile.
Why Indication Selection Matters
The same biologic medication may require different doses depending on the condition being treated. Clinical trials for each indication establish optimal dosing independently based on efficacy and safety data specific to that disease.
Always select the indication that matches your patient's diagnosis to ensure accurate dosing recommendations.
Tips for Accurate Calculations
- Use current weight: For weight-based dosing, use the patient's most recent weight. Significant changes may affect dosing tier placement.
- Verify medication name: Some biologics have similar names. Double-check you've selected the correct medication or intended biosimilar.
- Confirm indication: If multiple indications exist, ensure you've selected the specific condition you're treating.
- Note special populations: Standard dosing is provided. Hepatic/renal impairment may require adjustments—consult full prescribing information.
Common Dosing Questions
What if a patient misses a dose?
Missed dose guidance varies by medication. Generally, if within a few days of scheduled date, administer as soon as possible. For longer delays, consult prescribing information.
Can doses be adjusted for inadequate response?
Some biologics have approved dose escalation options. This calculator provides standard dosing only. Consult prescribing information for dose escalation guidance.
How do I handle pediatric to adult dosing transitions?
Transition typically occurs at the next scheduled dose after meeting age/weight criteria (usually age 12). The calculator automatically displays adult dosing once appropriate age is entered.
What about drug interactions?
This calculator focuses on dosing only. For drug interactions, contraindications, and warnings, refer to complete prescribing information. Live vaccines and immunosuppressants may require special consideration.
Disclaimer
While all dosing data is carefully verified against official manufacturer prescribing information,
ACDOSA assumes no liability for any errors, omissions, or clinical outcomes resulting from use of this tool.