Metabolism and disposition of dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether (DPGME) in male rats

Male Fischer 344 rats were given a single oral dose of approximately 1289 mg/kg (8.7 mmol/kg) of [14C]DPGME. After dosing, expired air, excreta, and tissues were analyzed for 14C activity, and metabolites in urine were isolated and identified. Approximately 60% of the administered 14C activity was excreted in urine, while 27% was eliminated as 14CO2 within 48 hr after dosing. DPGME, PGME, dipropylene glycol, propylene glycol, as well as sulfate and glucuronide conjugates of DPGME were identified in urine of animals given [14C]DPGME. Results of the study indicate that DPGME is metabolized via the same routes to the same general types of metabolites as previously identified for propylene glycol monomethyl ether (PGME).