Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic drug display and simulation systems in anesthesia practice

Purpose of review This review explores the use of tools and displays based on pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) modelling of drugs used in anesthesia. The primary focus is on those tools designed to illustrate the interactions between two or more drugs, or classes of drugs, and in particular, their use in a real-time clinical support role. Off-line, educational tools are also explored. Recent findings Despite initial promise and encouraging supporting data, the use of real-time display of PK/PD is not common except in target-controlled infusion (TCI) pumps. Summary PK/PD simulation is a useful tool for exposition of the relationship between drug dosing and effect. The initial promise of real-time tools has yet to be realized in routine clinical practice.