Incorporating prior parameter uncertainty in the design of sampling schedules for pharmacokinetic parameter estimation experiments.

An experiment design procedure is proposed for nonlinear parameter estimation studies that formally incorporates prior parameter uncertainty. The design criterion derives from information theory considerations and involves an asymptotic interpretation of the expected posterior information provided by an experiment. A pharmacokinetic sample schedule design problem is used to illustrate and evaluate this information theoretic design strategy. The model considered is commonly used to describe the plasma concentration of a drug following its oral administration. The limitations and advantages of the proposed design procedure are discussed in relation to other previously reported design techniques for incorporating parameter uncertainty.