Plasma free fatty acids and protein binding of disopyramide during haemodialysis

The binding of disopyramide (DSP) to plasma (or serum) proteins was determined using an ultrafiltration technique in three patients undergoing haemodialysis. An increase in the free fraction (FF) of DSP during dialysis occurred together with elevation of the free fatty acid (FFA) level in plasma. The effect of FFA on protein binding in vitro was examined using DSP- and FFA-spiked solutions containing human alpha 1-acid glycoprotein and serum albumin. The FF of DSP rose in proportion to increasing FFA levels, supporting the in vivo observations. The findings suggest that the free concentration of DSP should be routinely monitored, especially in haemodialysis patients.