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Ranitidine disposition in severe hepatic cirrhosis
International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, Therapy, and Toxicology
|March 1, 1987
Summary
Severe liver cirrhosis significantly alters ranitidine pharmacokinetics, leading to longer drug half-life and potentially higher plasma levels in patients. Dosage reduction of ranitidine is recommended for individuals with severe liver disease.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Hepatology
- Clinical Pharmacy
Background:
- Severe liver disease, specifically alcoholic cirrhosis, can significantly impact drug metabolism and elimination.
- Understanding ranitidine disposition in cirrhotic patients is crucial for safe and effective drug therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of severe liver disease on ranitidine pharmacokinetics.
- To compare ranitidine kinetics in healthy subjects versus patients with alcoholic cirrhosis.
Main Methods:
- Intravenous administration of ranitidine to 5 healthy subjects and 11 patients with alcoholic cirrhosis.
- Assessment of pharmacokinetic parameters including systemic clearance, distribution volume, and biological half-life.
- Clinical evaluation of liver disease severity in patients.
Main Results:
- Systemic clearance of ranitidine was significantly decreased in cirrhotic patients compared to healthy controls.
- The biological half-life of ranitidine was significantly longer in patients with severe liver cirrhosis.
- Distribution volume showed a non-significant decrease in cirrhotic patients.
Conclusions:
- Patients with severe liver cirrhosis exhibit altered ranitidine disposition, characterized by reduced clearance and prolonged half-life.
- Elevated plasma ranitidine levels are anticipated in cirrhotic patients, necessitating a potential reduction in dosage.
- These findings underscore the importance of dose adjustment for ranitidine in patients with severe hepatic impairment.