This article demonstrates the use of a genetic algorithm (GA) for the optimisation of a dosing guideline. GAs are well suited to derive combinations of doses and dosing intervals that go into a dosing guideline when the number of possible combinations rule out the calculation of all possible outcomes. GAs also allow for different constraints to be imposed on the optimization process to safeguard the clinical feasibility of the dosing guideline. In this work, we demonstrate the use of a GA for the optimisation of intermittent vancomycin administration in adult patients. Constraints were placed on the dose strengths, the length of the dosing intervals and the maximum infusion rate. Also, flexibility with respect to the timing of the first maintenance dose was included in the optimization process. The GA-based optimal solution is compared to the Scottish Antimicrobial Prescribing Group vancomycin guideline.

Colin, P.J., Eleveld, D.J. and Thomson, A.H. (2020) Genetic algorithms as a tool for dosing guideline optimisation: application to intermittent infusion dosing for vancomycin in adults. CPT: Pharmacometrics & Systems Pharmacology. May 8th. doi: 10.1002/psp4.12512. (Epub ahead of print).