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Pharmacokinetics of liposomal aerosolized cyclosporine A for pulmonary immunosuppression
G V Letsou1, H J Safi, M J Reardon
1Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, University of Texas-Houston, 77030, USA.
Background:
The results of pulmonary transplantation are compromised by acute and chronic rejection. We hypothesized that a liposomal form of aerosolized cyclosporine A (CsA) would be selectively deposited and concentrated in the lungs. The theoretical advantage of this therapy is selective pulmonary immunosuppression with prolonged utilization.
Methods:
Eighteen dogs were endotracheally intubated; aerosolized liposomal CsA was administered for 15 min. CsA levels were measured in whole blood, lung, trachea, heart, kidney, liver, and spleen at various times after treatment.
Results:
The lung rapidly absorbs aerosolized liposomal CsA; other organs have much lower concentrations. The retention of pulmonary CsA delivered by liposome aerosol is approximately 120 min in this model.
Conclusions:
Aerosolized liposomal CsA is selectively deposited and concentrated in the lungs; other organs absorb less CsA.
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