Metabolism of chlormezanone in man

The metabolism of chlormezanone (Muskel Trancopal) in man was studied by the aid of gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and high performance liquid chromatography after an oral dose of 400 mg. Six metabolites and/or degradation products were identified in the urine. Some of the metabolites are formed at least partially by nonenzymatic hydrolysis in the stomach. In contrast to previous publications, no unchanged drug was detected in plasma and urine. The main metabolite in plasma is generated by cleavage of the amide bond in the six-membered heterocyclic ring. This derivative is easily formed by in vitro hydrolysis at pH 1, too. It structurally resembles baclofene. About 40% of the dose is excreted with the urine. The major metabolite in urine is 4-chlorohippuric acid. Additionally, 4-chloro-benzoyl-N-methylamide, 4-chlorobenzoic acid, N-methylimino-4-chlorobenzaldehyde, 4-chlorobenzaldehyde, and "hydrolized" chlormezanone were identified.