Cefodizime is a new third generation cephalosporin for parenteral use. The purpose of this study was to define the pharmacokinetic profile of cefodizime after intravenous dosing with 1.0 and 2.0 g in healthy adult volunteers. Concentrations in plasma were determined over a period of 34 h and in urine over 48 h, using high-pressure liquid chromatographic procedures. Cefodizime displays a long elimination half-life (3.5-3.7 h). Mean total clearance was 2.63 +/- 0.19 l/h and mean renal clearance was 1.37 +/- 0.15 l/h. Areas under the curve were 422 +/- 43 mg.h/l and 757 +/- 39 mg.h/l for 1.0 and 2.0 g respectively. The apparent volumes of distribution were 12.8 +/- 1.81 and 14.3 +/- 1.11. After 1.0 g administration the residual concentrations were 3.94 +/- 0.79 mg/l and 0.38 +/- 0.10 mg/l at 12 and 24 h, respectively; after 2.0 g administration the residual concentrations were 6.80 +/- 1.40 mg/l and 0.65 +/- 0.18 mg/l, at 12 h and 24 h. Cefodizime is mainly eliminated via the kidneys. This profile supports once-daily administration of cefodizime, when indicated in non-life-threatening infections.