[Trypanocidal activity and plasma kinetics of cis-Pt(II) pentamidine in the parasitized sheep]

The trypanocidal activity of cis-Pt(II) pentamidine had been demonstrated during the first phase of Trypanosoma brucei brucei sheep experimental trypanosomiasis. But a subcutaneous treatment with 5 mg.kg-1 (+2 x 12 mg.kg-1) was not effective during the brain phase of trypanosomiasis. The blood pharmacokinetics of this compound had a plasmatic peak between 45 and 60 min, followed by a low decreasing phase along several days. The curve shape allowed an important interval before the following injection, and showed a compound storage in internal organs and extravascular sites. A model of cis-Pt(II) pentamidine metabolism had been studied: this product could be used as a chemoprophylactic medicine against African trypanosomiasis and American leishmaniasis.