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Bioavailability of a small unilamellar low-clearance liposomal amikacin formulation after extravascular

R M Fielding1, L Moon-McDermott, R O Lewis

  • 1Biopharmaceutics Group, NeXstar Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Boulder, CO 80301, USA. biopharm@worldnet.att.net

Insights

Small liposomes carrying amikacin (MiKasome) show extended presence in plasma and tissues, offering potential for treating infections. Extravascular administration, like intraperitoneal and intratracheal routes, resulted in significant systemic bioavailability.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology and Pharmaceutics
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Nanomedicine

Background:

  • Amikacin in small, low-clearance liposomes (MiKasome) demonstrates prolonged plasma and tissue residence.
  • This formulation exhibits in vivo activity against extracellular infections like Klebsiella pneumonia and Pseudomonas endocarditis.
  • Small liposomes possess the ability to traverse endothelial barriers and enter systemic circulation post-extravascular administration.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the systemic bioavailability (F) of low-clearance liposomal amikacin in rats.
  • To evaluate absorption following various administration routes: intravenous (i.v.), intraperitoneal (i.p.), intramuscular (i.m.), subcutaneous (s.c.), and intratracheal (i.t.).

Main Methods:

  • Liposomal amikacin was administered via i.v., i.p., i.m., s.c. (20 mg/kg), and i.t. (10 mg/kg) routes in rats.
  • Plasma and tissue concentrations of amikacin were measured over time.
  • Systemic bioavailability (F) and pharmacokinetic parameters like AUC and Tmax were calculated.

Main Results:

  • Extensive absorption (F = 87-146% for i.p., F = 64% for i.t.) was observed after i.p. and i.t. administration.
  • Slower, less extensive absorption occurred with s.c. (12-27% absorbed) and i.m. routes.
  • Plasma AUCs of liposomal amikacin were at least 25-fold higher than conventional i.v. amikacin across all routes.
  • Amikacin AUCs in lymph nodes and surrounding tissues were significantly elevated after s.c. and i.m. injections.

Conclusions:

  • Small, low-clearance liposomes achieve sustained amikacin levels in plasma, local tissues, and lymph nodes after extravascular administration.
  • This suggests potential applications in perioperative prophylaxis, pneumonia treatment, and intralesional therapy.
  • The formulation facilitates sustained systemic delivery of encapsulated amikacin.

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