Cotinine Metabolism in Infants and Children

Levels of cotinine, a biomarker for nicotine, have been found to be higher in infants and small children than adults. This pharmacokinetic study is designed to determine whether children metabolize cotinine differently than adults. Seventy-two healthy children between the ages of 2 months and 6 years will come with their mothers to SFGH GCRC for one approximately 9 hour visit. After being examined by a pediatrician, the child will be administered one dose of cotinine at .05 mg/kg. Saliva and urine samples will be collected prior to dosing and throughout the day to characterize the metabolism and excretion of cotinine. The investigators have previously shown that a ratio of 3'-hydroxycotinine/cotinine (3HC/Cot) in saliva correlates closely to nicotine metabolism. Following these one day hospital visits, a research assistant will visit the participants in their homes to collect urine and saliva samples at 1,2,3,7, and 10 days after the initial dose.