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Levamisole pharmacokinetics and bioavailability in dogs
A D Watson1, N C Sangster, D B Church
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Research in Veterinary Science
|November 1, 1988
Summary
Intravenous levamisole caused adverse reactions in dogs, with one fatality. Oral levamisole absorption and bioavailability were reduced when administered with food, impacting treatment.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pharmacology
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics
Background:
- Levamisole is an anthelmintic and immunomodulatory drug used in veterinary medicine.
- Understanding levamisole's pharmacokinetic profile is crucial for optimizing its therapeutic use and minimizing adverse effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the pharmacokinetics of levamisole following intravenous and oral administration in dogs.
- To investigate the impact of food on the oral bioavailability of levamisole in dogs.
Main Methods:
- Six healthy dogs received levamisole intravenously and orally, with and without food.
- Plasma drug concentrations were measured over time.
- Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using a one-compartment model.
Main Results:
- Intravenous levamisole administration resulted in adverse reactions in all dogs, with one mortality.
- Oral absorption in fasted dogs was rapid, with a mean fraction absorbed (F) of 0.64.
- Concomitant food intake impaired oral levamisole bioavailability, reducing the fraction absorbed to 0.49 and slowing absorption.
Conclusions:
- Intravenous levamisole poses significant safety risks in dogs.
- Food significantly reduces the oral bioavailability of levamisole in dogs, potentially affecting therapeutic efficacy and side effect profiles.
- Dosage and administration guidelines for oral levamisole in dogs should consider the influence of food intake.